Novak Djokovic announced a big change in his career on Sunday, January 4. The 38-year-old tennis star said he is leaving the Professional Tennis Players Association. However, he made it clear that he is not retiring from tennis.
According to US Weekly, Djokovic shared the news on X. He said he decided to step away from the PTPA after thinking about it carefully. The tennis champion said he had concerns about how the organization was being run and how his voice and image were being used.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner said he was proud of what he and Vasek Pospisil created when they started the PTPA in 2021. They wanted to give tennis players a stronger voice that was independent. But Djokovic said things have changed over time, and the organization’s direction no longer matches his values.
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Djokovic’s playing career continues despite the exit
“I will continue to focus on my tennis, my family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect my principles and integrity,” Djokovic wrote. “I wish the players and those involved the best as they move forward, but for me, this chapter is now closed.”
Some fans got worried when they read Djokovic’s announcement. They thought he might be quitting tennis. But the Serbian star quickly cleared up any confusion. He said he will keep playing tennis and spending time with his family.
Djokovic also said he wants to help the sport in ways that match his beliefs. He wished the PTPA and the players involved the best but said this part of his life is now over. Similar to how recent controversies have emerged in sports media, Djokovic’s departure has sparked discussions in the tennis world.
The PTPA responded to Djokovic’s exit the same day. The organization said players created the group to have a better voice in professional tennis. They said the PTPA is run by players with open communication and regular meetings.
The PTPA also mentioned they filed a lawsuit against tennis tours and Grand Slam events. They said this legal action is about making changes to how tennis is governed and protecting player rights. The organization claimed they have faced attacks and false information from people trying to damage their reputation.
Djokovic and Pospisil started the PTPA in 2021 as a non-profit group in Canada. They felt the original players association from 1972 was no longer protecting players properly. The PTPA was created to support all players at every level without conflicts of interest. In March 2024, the organization filed a major lawsuit accusing tennis authorities of unfair practices and mistreating players.
Pospisil was listed as a plaintiff, but Djokovic was not. As for his tennis career, Djokovic said recently he has no plans to retire soon and might even play until the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. While Djokovic continues making history in tennis, other athletes are also achieving unprecedented records in their sports.
Published: Jan 5, 2026 04:15 pm