Bad Look for Association – Tennis Now

By Richard Pagliaro | Monday, January 5, 2026
Photo credit: Daniil Medvedev Instagram

Novak Djokovic cutting ties with the PTPA is a “bad look” for the Professional Tennis Players Association, says Daniil Medvedev.

Djokovic, who co-founded the PTPA with Vasek Pospisil, announced yesterday he left the association because “it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organization.”

Asked about Djokovic’s disassociation in Brisbane today, Medvedev, who said he’s a PTPA supporter but not a decision maker, was clear it’s a loss for the Association.

“Honestly, on Novak, for sure it’s kind of a bad look on PTPA, because he was a co-founder, so I don’t know the exact decisions behind — or sorry, like, factors behind his decision,” Medvedev told the media.

After careful consideration, I have decided to step away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association. This decision comes after ongoing concerns regarding transparency, governance, and the way my voice and image have been represented.

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 4, 2026

I am proud of the vision that Vasek and I shared when founding the PTPA, giving players a stronger, independent voice – but it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organization.

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 4, 2026

Former No. 1 Medvedev, said he views the PTPA mission as important because of the governing bodies’ monopoly of tennis, and hopes the PTPA continues its work even without the Grand Slam king on board.

“I was always for PTPA, because I do think ATP can improve some things, and they are the monopoly in the sport,” Medvedev said. “I, at the same time, I know my priorities and, for example, I was never involved as a decision-maker in PTPA, but I always said I think it’s good even if we have maybe more parties trying to not even change something in tennis but trying to look into tennis if there are some things to change.

“So that’s kind of it. I’m not for it, not against it. I think guys should continue doing their job and try to do it as good as they can.”