More Than a Year After Pete Sampras’ Solid Advice, Novak Djokovic Ditched Idol’s Thoughts to Initiate a Rebellious Move That’s Firmly Opposed by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal

The Serbian star, Novak Djokovic, previously came up with the idea of a tennis association in order to provide a unified platform for the players. He was accompanied by his colleague, Vasek Pospisi. The duo established the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA). They started with the initiative of tackling different issues in both the men’s and women’s circuits. The 36-year-old legend aimed to revolutionize the needs of lower-ranked players which current tennis organizations disregarded.

As a result, the currently ranked world No. 2 player had to take a radical step by getting involved in the politics of the sport. However, ‘Djoker’s’ decision to start the controversial organization was given a big thumbs down by his arch-rivals, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. They believed his rebel association would cause more disparity among the players rather than a cohesive platform. Even Djokovic’s idol, Pete Sampras was against his idea of getting too involved in a political matter. Speaking about the same, the American previously opened up about how the Serb didn’t heed his advice.

Pete Sampras previously expressed his views on Novak Djokovic-led PTPA

In ‘Pete Sampras; Greatness Revisited,’ the 14 singles Grand Slam champion spoke about Djokovic’s decision to enter the politics of the sport. Emphasizing it, the 51-year-old reminisced about the private discussion he had with the Serb. This conversation transpired during the Indian Wells, a few seasons back.

While calling Djokovic a very conscientious and thoughtful person, the American tennis icon said that he disapproved of his decision of heading up for the Player Council as it was a bit ‘distracting’. Sampras said, “I just told him the less distractions the better. You don’t need to be dealing with any friction with other players or getting involved too much in the politics of the sport.”

The Hall of Famer believed that the 36-year-old player should focus on achieving greatness on the court rather than his involvement in politics. Sampras added, “I said, ‘It is great that you care so much but just be aware that all of that stuff can take some energy out of you.’”

Despite the strong disapproval from his former coach, the ‘Djoker’ went on to launch the PTP. Moreover, he did it in the very next season, during the 2020 US Open. Since its inception, numerous prominent figures in the tennis community have joined the controversial tennis organization.

Who all are a part of the Djokovic-led PTPA?

In the men’s circuit, Djokovic’s close friend, Nick Kyrgios previously joined his rebel association as a member of its board. Even in the women’s circuit, the Japanese star, Naomi Osaka also become a member of the PTPA in order to make a difference for the masses in the entire tennis community. Just like the Serb, Kyrgios, and Osaka also aims to give back to the sport. Their emphasis lies for the cause of supporting other players, especially the lower-ranked ones. Just like these young stars, Ons Jabeur also aims to lead the cause to eradicate gender inequalities in the tennis circuit.

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What do you think of Djokovic’s decision to establish the PTPA irrespective of the American tennis legend’s advice? Let us know in the comments section.

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