Daniil Medvedev Considers Novak Djokovic’s Shock Departure from PTPA ‘Bad Look’ for Players Union

Novak Djokovic has departed from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) due to governance and transparency issues, and because his values and approach no longer align with the organization. This came as shocking news because it was Djokovic, as well as Canada’s Vasek Pospisil, who founded the players’ union back in 2021.

In the wake of Djokovic’s decision, Daniil Medvedev was asked to comment on it at the press conference following his emphatic win over Marton Fucsovics 6-2, 6-3 in the opening round of the Brisbane International. Although Medvedev backs PTPA, he thinks Djokovic’s exit is a negative look for the organization.

I saw it. 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. So tough for me to say. I was always for PTPA, because I do think ATP can improve some things, and they are the monopoly in the sport.

Daniil Medvedev said

Tennis fans said they saw this decision coming after Djokovic last year revealed that he did not agree with certain aspects of the lawsuit the PTPA filed against the WTA, ATP, ITF, and the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA). PTPA and 12 former and current players were named as plaintiffs, including 2022 Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios. But Djokovic was not part of it.

Yeah, it’s just, 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.

Daniil Medvedev added

Djokovic was scheduled to play at the Adelaide International and bid for his third title in the tournament. But the Serb has decided to skip it due to physical issues, which means he will be starting his campaign at the Australian Open, where he will be chasing his record 25th Grand Slam title as well as his 11th title in the tournament.

Daniil Medvedev wants to become a contender in Grand Slams once again

Daniil Medvedev has admitted that even he doesn’t consider himself a favorite in Grand Slam events at this stage of his career. But the former World No.1 is not ready to accept this situation as he is aiming to become once again a formidable force.

Sometimes there are surprises, and you can actually be low-ranked but still have a good draw, or you can just beat someone good and get a better draw. So you never know. As for my chances, at this point in my career, I’m no longer the favorite to win everything, but I’ll try to become that again as soon as possible.

Daniil Medvedev said at the press conference

In Brisbane, the 29-year-old will next be locking horns with Frances Tiafoe, who went past home favorite Aleksandar Vukic. Medvedev holds a 5-1 head-to-head lead over the American.

Back in 2019, Medvedev finished the Brisbane International as the runner-up, losing the match to Kei Nishikori. Medvedev is a three-time finalist at the Australian Open, last reaching the title clash in 2024, where he squandered a two-set lead to lose to Jannik Sinner.

Medvedev had a topsy-turvy 2025 season, for after a string of poor performances, he reached the Halle Open final, only to suffer defeat at the hands of Alexander Bublik. Medvedev finally tasted victory at the Almaty Open by defeating Corentin Moutet, which was his first trophy since the 2023 Italian Open.

Also read: Serena Williams’ Ex-Coach Tears Into Taylor Fritz After United Cup Loss

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