In a surprising move that reshapes the landscape of professional tennis governance, Novak Djokovic has officially resigned from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), the organization he co-founded. The news was confirmed on January 4, 2026.
A Founding Member Steps Away
The Serbian tennis champion was instrumental in launching the PTPA in 2020, alongside Canadian player Vasek Pospisil. The association was created to give players, particularly those outside the top ranks, a stronger collective voice concerning the sport's governance, revenue sharing, and tournament conditions. Djokovic's departure from the organization's executive committee and his membership is a major development for the fledgling union.
Details and Context of the Resignation
The announcement came without extensive public commentary from Djokovic detailing his specific reasons for leaving. The PTPA confirmed his resignation, which was submitted recently. Djokovic was last seen publicly at a tribute ceremony for tennis figure Niki Pilic during a Davis Cup quarterfinal between Italy and Austria in Bologna, Italy, on November 19, 2025.
The PTPA has positioned itself as an independent body separate from the traditional governing structures of the ATP (men's tour) and WTA (women's tour). Its goal has been to advocate directly for players' financial and professional rights, often challenging the status quo. Djokovic's leadership was seen as crucial in lending credibility and star power to the cause.
Potential Impact on Tennis and Player Advocacy
Djokovic's exit raises immediate questions about the future direction and influence of the PTPA. While the organization has other player representatives, losing its most prominent and influential co-founder is a significant blow. Analysts will be watching to see if this leads to a strategic shift within the PTPA or affects its ability to negotiate with tournament organizers and governing bodies.
The timing is also notable, occurring at the start of the 2026 season. It remains unclear whether Djokovic's decision is related to his playing career focus, disagreements over the PTPA's strategy, or a desire to distance himself from organizational politics. His departure marks the end of a five-year chapter of direct involvement in player union activism, a role that sometimes drew criticism but underscored his commitment to shaping the sport's future beyond his on-court achievements.
