Finally, Novak Djokovic will not be part of the Players Council ATP. At length there was talk about a possible nomination after leaving his post, but the Serbian has taken it upon himself to dispel any doubts weeks before a new tennis season begins. In a deep and interesting letter, Novak recounted the process of his last nomination, made clear the change of rules of the ATP to counter the recently created PTPA and he conclusively concluded wishing that any conflict of interest within the governing body of the male circuit would be eradicated.
“I would like to give you an update on my nomination for the next elections to the Players Council.
First of all, I want to express the honor of receiving the support and trust of all those who nominated me so that I can serve the collective interests of the players on the Council. My first reaction to this nomination was accept it, with the intention that, if elected, I will do my best to protect the interests of the players within the ATP.
However, a few days after the nomination, the ATP approved a new law That put me in a pretty tough spot. This new rule specifies that no member of the recently formed PTPA, or of any association that is considered a possible conflict of interest, cannot be elected as a member of the Players Council. As you know, I am part of the PTPA, an organization that has no intention to conflict with ATP. The PTPA has yet to create a structure, with a strategy and a long-term vision to be defined, and although the PTPA has already made it clear that it is going to be an attacker towards the ATP, it is not too clear what vision the ATP will have on it in the future.
Unfortunately, given the latest news, I feel like it’s necessary remove my name from the candidate list. I do not want to create any kind of uncertainty or conflict around the Council Elections. I do this reluctantly and with great regret. I am and have always been a person passionate when it comes to representing my colleagues on the Council. I sincerely think that there is a way ahead that will greatly improve the living conditions of many players, especially the lower ranked players, and that it will have a strong and positive impact on tennis as a sport. I am confident that the PTPA will achieve this in the near future.
Before concluding, I would like to communicate that I consider it very important that there is no conflict of interest within our sport. I hope that as time goes on, this not only applies to the formation of new associations by players, but also applies. at all levels within the structure of ATP.
I wish everyone an amazing and healthy 2021 season. Sincerely,
Novak Djokovic
– Novak Djokovic (DjokerNole) December 21, 2020
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