“Had a Problem With the Structure”: Tennis Analyst Cites Reasons for Creating Novak Djokovic’s PTPA

On the eve of the US Open this year, Novak Djokovic established the PTPA (Professional Tennis Players Association). He, along with Vasek Pospisil and John Isner, became part of this new establishment. At that time, Novak was the president of the ATP Player Council. 

The main reason that was given for creating this organization was to voice the opinion of all players, especially ones that don’t belong to the elite category.

There have often been accusations stating the ATP Player Council is ‘not for all the players.’ The group felt there was an injustice done to the players who were not so privileged. 

Recently, while speaking with tennis analyst Matt Roberts, he issued some clarity on the matter.

He said, “We’ve heard many things as to why they want to set up the PTPA, about why they want a change in leadership. I always find it difficult to talk about ATP politics because we just hear these reports, these nuggets and it kind of becomes a question of who do you believe. But I’ve never heard those numbers before and it would be fascinating to put those numbers behind the people at the PTPA.”

Novak Djokovic Didn’t Have a Problem With Chris Kermode

He also indicated that the players didn’t have a problem with the outgoing chairman Chris Kermode; instead, they were bothered by the structure surrounding it.

He added, “They didn’t actually have a problem with Chris Kermode. They’ve had a problem with the structure, they’ve talked so much of wanting to change the structure. They want more player representation.”

Matt did come to Kermode’s defense and felt that there has been a misunderstanding between the two parties. Hearing the story from the other side is necessary too. 

Reflecting on that, he also said, “Chris was very quick to come out with the figures of how they have helped the lower-ranked players with the distribution of prize money. I think there has been a misrepresentation of what he was aiming to do and what he did do while he was in charge. I would like to hear the other side of things and how they would respond to those figures.”

Also Read: “I Wouldn’t Be Here”: Naomi Osaka Credits Serena Williams for Inspiring Her to Play Tennis

There has been a considerable amount of debate on this issue. It would be nice if both groups come to a common solution.