Djokovic, Pospisil, Union, Court Case; Everything you always wanted to know about the PTPA (but never had time to ask) – updated with court case news
Everything you need to know about the Professional Tennis Players’ association, formed by Novak Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil in 2020
Novak Djokovic, Miami Open, 2025 © Zuma / Psnewz
What is the PTPA?
The PTPA is the Professional Tennis Players’ Association, an unofficial player union formed to try to improve rights for all professional tennis players.
Why is the PTPA in the news?
On March 18, the PTPA announced it is suing the ATP, WTA, ITF and ITIA, naming the four Grand Slam tournaments as co-conspirators. In a 163-page document, filed in New York, London and Brussels, it cites “anti-competitive practices and a blatant disregard for player welfare”. It says players do not receive a fair share of the overall money-pot and also airs criticisms of the schedule, ranking systems and says players do not have control over their image rights. The PTPA says it wants a jury trial, but in interviews, its CEO has also suggested it would be keen to settle if some changes can be implemented.
What was the reaction from the governing bodies?
Each governing body, with the exception of the ITF, issued statements, defending their own role in the sport and saying the law suit was unnecessary and unfounded. They pledged to defend themselves in the courts.
Who founded the PTPA?
The PTPA was co-founded by Novak Djokovic, the 24-times Grand Slam champion, and Vasek Pospisil, a Canadian who won the men’s doubles title at Wimbledon in 2012. The founders said that players deserve a player union, independent of the Tours.
When was the PTPA founded?
The PTPA was founded on the eve of the US Open in 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Which players are in the PTPA?
The PTPA says it doesn’t keep a members’ list, as such, but many high-profile players have aligned themselves with their goals. In addition to the co-founders, Novak Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil, the likes of Nick Kyrgios, Hubert Hurkacz, Ons Jabeur, Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Reilly Opelka, have all promoted the PTPA’s principles.
Who is in charge of the PTPA?
The executive director of the PTPA is Ahmad Nassar, who formerly worked in the NFL.
what is the purpose of the ptpa?
According to the PTPA’s own definition, as quoted on their website, “The PTPA is an organization created BY the players FOR the players. We are the leading advocate for professional tennis players worldwide and we serve to support, protect and advance players’ well-being on and off the court.
We aim to maximize the power of the collective and united player body to ensure fair representation and consideration. We work on behalf of the best interests of all players and players alone and do not answer to any other stakeholders.”
