'We have been targets of a coordinated defamation': PTPA release statement, hours after Djokovic's resignation

(Getty/Kym Illman)

The Professional Tennis Players' Association (PTPA) claim they are "targets of a coordinated defamation" after Novak Djokovic opted to step down from the Board.

Djokovic and former Canadian player Vasek Pospisil co-founded the player-led council in August 2020, in a bid to better protect player welfare and interests.

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However, in a surprising social media post, Djokovic announced that he is resigning from the PTPA Board due to "ongoing concerns" about a range of issues.

"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," he wrote.

"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 organisation.

"I will continue to focus on my tennis, my family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect my principles and integrity. I wish the players and those involved the best as they move forward, but for me, this chapter is now closed."

Hours later, the PTPA released their own statement:

"Players created the PTPA to secure a stronger, more transparent voice in professional tennis. The PTPA is governed by players and operates with open communication, collaborative decisions and regular engagement. We always welcome the opportunity to address issues with any player, and remain available to do so.

"As part of its mission, the PTPA initiated litigation against the tours and Grand Slams to advance reforms related to governance, transparency and player rights. As a result, we have been targets of a coordinated defamation and witness intimidation campaign through the spreading of inaccurate and misleading narratives intended to discredit the PTPA, its staff, and its work. A federal court has already ruled this type of harassment as improper and ordered it to cease.

"We are working closely with legal counsel, law enforcement and players to evaluate all available options to address the spread of misinformation. These attacks from non-player third-parties will not distract us from our mission: pursuing meaningful reforms for all players."

Two weeks ago, Tennis Australia reached a settlement agreement with the PTPA, linking back to a 163-page lawsuit targeting the ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA).

The PTPA have argued that those organisations have acted as a "cartel" that tries to gain "monopolistic control" when it comes to matters such as player welfare, scheduling, and prize money.

The Kooyong Classic returns to the spiritual home of Australian tennis from January 13-15, 2026.

Each year, the Kooyong Classic features the world’s best players in their final preparation for the Australian Open. 

The 2026 event will feature Lorenzo Musetti, Alexander Bublik, Nick Kyrgios, Karen Khachanov, Flavio Cobolli, Frances Tiafoe, Learner Tien, Matteo Berrettini, Hubert Hurkacz, Marin Čilić and Zhang Zhizhen, alongside Donna Vekić and a special guest appearance Daniela Hantuchová. More to be announced in coming weeks.

Tickets on sale now through Ticketek/www.kooyongclassic.com.au

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