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Novak Djokovic reveals that he has spoken to Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal about joining his new players’ union

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic - Roger Federer makes his choice

Novak Djokovic turned to Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal before founding his new players union, but the 20-time Grand Slam champion turned down his offers to get involved.

Djokovic left the ATP Players Council in September while playing at the Cincinnati Open to create the Professional Tennis Players’ Association, but Federer and Nadal were quick to tell him they would not be attending.

“Before we created PTPA, I spoke to both Roger Federer and Nadal and they didn’t want to participate. I don’t criticize anyone, everyone has the right to their own opinion ”, declared the Serbian world No. 1.

Would I love if you join us? Of course I would. But we keep going. “

Djokovic went on to say that the opposition to his new union will not stop his ambitions to make the company a success.

“Given that there was a lot of resistance, that a lot of people tried to discourage us, we have had a lot of beatings in America. I just know that people see it differently,” he added.

“I’ve already pointed out why it has to exist. Not only did it occur to us, it’s an idea that has been around for more than 20 years.

“Goran [Ivanisevic] is my trainer, he was the first generation that wanted to set up such an organization.

“There have been more attempts, but various factors have made them fail. Tennis is a global sport that is popular and very important all over the world.

“On the other hand, tennis is in the top 10 when it comes to reaching its full potential.

“There is a problem because there is a monopoly and a system that has ruled the government for decades, and when people are in ruling positions, it is not in their interests to change.

“I didn’t get involved in setting up the organization to oppose anyone. The aim is to represent the rights of tennis players. We know we still have a long way to go. “

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