Intending to Shake Up Orthodox Tennis’ Roots, Novak Djokovic Cites MLB and NBA’s Successful Example to Lay Down Ground-Breaking Proposal

The latter half of the 2020 tennis season was a turbulent one for the parties involved. While the Covid-19 pandemic started to affect tennis schedules, off-court activities also took precedence. Just ahead of the US Open that year, World Number 1, Novak Djokovic, announced the formation of the Professional Tennis Players Association along with Canadian star, Vasek Pospisil. The group was formed to take into account players’ grievances and challenges and give a voice to them. Recently, Djokovic’s group cited strong examples to showcase the effect of their cause.

Over the period of time, the Serb’s association has been termed as a rebel group, owing to its differences with the men’s tennis governing body, ATP. While many players have joined this association, some top players preferred to stay away from it. Here’s how the association stressed the massive change.

What did the rebel association of Novak Djokovic say?

Similar to the Professional Tennis Players Association, there are similar organizations in the NBA and MLB. These are historic associations that have worked for players’ well-being for ages. Highlighting the effect of these associations, the PTPA used their examples to justify their cause.

For the NBA, it first highlighted how the average salary has grown since its inception. Additionally, it also showcased the creation of a minimum salary structure, and various health benefits achieved due to the association.

Similarly, for the MLB, a massive increase in salaries was a key point highlighted in the differentiation table before and after the inception of their players association. Further, the introduction of pension programs, free agency, etc were the other benefits obtained with the help of the MLBPA.

Taking to its official Twitter handle, the PTPA wrote, “The proof is there. Players associations can enact REAL change for their athletes. Check out these examples.”

Djokovic has gone all the way to help the players. Recently, he revealed a brutal reality that made his association a necessity.

Read More: ‘Didn’t Feel Like Number One’- Novak Djokovic’s Masterful Champion Tactics Brings Out Regret in Former Champion as He Makes Disheartening Revelation

Djokovic makes a harsh confession

Following his victorious US Open campaign, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has taken a short break away from tennis. During a recent interview, he revealed why the PTPA was extremely crucial.

Talking about this, he said, “The fact that I mean that both in ATP & WTA governance you have 50% of you know ATP and WTA belongs to the player and 50% to tournaments. Most of the cases you’ll always going to have a conflict of interest.”

Further, he went on to add, “If you actually go to the very structure and the system that is in place. I was part of the council and President of the council for 6-7 years. So, I understand you know how things work. Players get the short end of the stick, 90 plus percent of the time.”

Djokovic will be aiming to continue his winning ways as he sets off for the Paris Masters later this month. Can he finish the year on a high? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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