In a turn few expected, Novak Djokovic’s sudden exit from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) has reignited long-simmering tensions within tennis politics. The move has once again put the spotlight on the choices Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal made when they publicly opposed Djokovic’s breakaway initiative.

And as the debate resurfaces, John McEnroe has come out firmly in Djokovic’s defense, arguing that the Serb’s intentions were justified from the very beginning, even if they drew resistance from some of the sport’s biggest names.

When Novak Djokovic unveiled the PTPA in 2020, he expected resistance. But perhaps not from two of the sport’s most respected voices. Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal publicly challenged the proposal, arguing that division, not reform, was the real threat to tennis. Nadal was firm and articulate when responding to Djokovic’s breakaway initiative. He argued that meaningful change came from unity, not fragmentation:

“Just because they created this organization doesn’t mean they help tennis more than other players who believe in the usual structure… If we compare the earnings of five, six, seven, or eight years ago to today, it is clear that we have significantly reduced the gap between the lowest-ranked and the best players. We know that we have to continue working on this, but we do not consider that another organization is necessary.”

But Djokovic later admitted he wasn’t comfortable with the legal tone of PTPA, saying he felt some wording was “too strong.” Hence, he decided to split with PTPA. Following this, John McEnroe admitted he was a bit surprised by Novak Djokovic’s decision.

“It came practically out of nowhere. I’m not even sure if it’s a union or an association — and the difference between the two terms is huge and leads to a whole other political debate about the actual impact.”

McEnroe also raised questions about whether it’s possible to be a member of ATP and PTPA at the same time. Further on, he added, “All this additionally shows that the players are not at the table in the way they should be, because they are too divided. This is another example of how the whole situation seems to have caught Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer off guard. I don’t know what will happen next.”

For the American legend, the bigger issue is fragmentation, not just within the PTPA but across all governing bodies. John McEnroe also highlighted how, even in his earlier days, they tried to improve the position of the players, to secure better deals with the Grand Slam tournaments, and to be equal participants, even partners.

Novak Djokovic’s initial PTPA proposal was challenged by Nadal and Federer

Djokovic co-founded the PTPA with Vasek Pospisil in September 2020, presenting it as an independent platform to amplify the voices of lower-ranked and marginalized players. It was meant to challenge what he believed were decades of structural imbalances in the sport. Last year, the organization took an aggressive stance in 2025, filing lawsuits against the ATP, WTA, and ITF – accusing them of “anti-competitive practices” and “abusive restraints.”

As per his statements, the players have never been treated fairly, which is why the ATP was founded in the first place. However, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal opposed PTPA’s vision.

Since it was found during the pandemic period, Nadal insisted that these are times to be calm and work together in the same direction. He felt it was time for unity, not for separation. Roger Federer then backed Rafael Nadal almost instantly, posting a message on social media that reinforced the same concerns.

Top Stories

Madison Keys Shares Cheeky Marriage Confession After Husband’s ‘Thrown Out’ Warning at Australian Open

WATCH: Novak Djokovic Left Speechless After Roger Federer Chants Echo Through the Crowd

Roger Federer Breaks Silence on Possible Coaching Role at the Australian Open: “Never Say Never”

Australian Open Sees Engaged Tennis Couple Celebrate Big Wins With Touching On-Court Moment

Roger Federer Raises Comeback Hopes After Stunning Casper Ruud at Australian Open

“I agree @RafaelNadal. These are uncertain and challenging times, but I believe it’s critical for us to stand united as players and as a sport to pave the best way forward.”

Despite facing resistance from his greatest rivals, Novak Djokovic had chosen to stay diplomatic. He said that he would love to have Roger and Rafa on board, but having said that, he also understands that some of them have different opinions and they don’t think the time is right.

Years later, as Djokovic steps away from the PTPA entirely, both Federer’s and Nadal’s reactions to the formation of this organization have once again come to the limelight. What are your thoughts on Djokovic’s decision to part ways with PTPA, though?