Tennis union PTPA sues sport’s governing bodies over players’ rights

The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), co-founded by Novak Djokovic, sued several tennis governing bodies yesterday, including the ATP Tour and WTA Tour.

The 163‑page lawsuit alleges decades of “systemic abuse, anti-competitive practices” and disregard for athletes’ welfare.

The case, filed in a New York district court, named 12 pro players as plaintiffs, including Djokovic, Vasek Pospisil, Nick Kyrgios and Sorana Cirstea.

PTPA claims the governing bodies act like a “cartel” by forming deals that limit players’ financial payouts and prize money. It also states that players face intrusive searches, excessive drug tests, and interrogations without legal representation.

It points out that the grueling 11-month season forces players into 60 ATP events across 29 countries and 51 WTA events in 26 countries, making careers unsustainable. The lawsuit also highlights injuries from changing ball types and extreme heat conditions.

Meanwhile, the ATP says it paid $241.6 million to male players in 2023, and the WTA offered a record prize money of $221 million in 2024.

The lawsuit, the biggest so far, demands structural reforms, fairer revenue sharing, and greater player autonomy. A lengthy legal battle is expected that could potentially reshape tennis tournaments around the world.