“Don’t Think That’s the Best Way”: Kevin Anderson Opposes Novak Djokovic’s Players’ Body

The newly elected president of the ATP Player Council, Kevin Anderson, has a lot of things to ponder on. With COVID-19 still very much at large, he has to solve all the issues that have arisen due to the pandemic. But headlining a huge change in tennis is the Novak Djokovic led new players’ body, the Professional Tennis Players Association. Recently, Anderson talked about the new association.

Why did Novak Djokovic create the PTPA?

Djokovic was the ATP Player Council president prior to Anderson. But the World No. 1 along with a few other members felt that the structure in place at ATP compromised the players’ interest. But Anderson differs from this opinion and wants players to have faith in the new management at ATP.

“From my standpoint, I don’t think that’s the best way to go. While I know that the ATP has challenges within a structure, I feel like we still been able to accomplish a lot, and especially with new management. There’s going to be a long look at governance and making some pretty significant changes,” Anderson said.

Further, Anderson doesn’t see the PTPA coexisting with the current tennis structure in place. He said, “Logistically, I just have a tough time seeing how sort of a player’s union like that fits into our structure for better or for worse, at this point in time it’s a big business.”

Kevin Anderson calls for better communication and unity among players

Djokovic has been heavily criticized for creating the association in today’s time when the pandemic is wreaking havoc. He has been accused of dividing the tennis world in a period where unity among players is of utmost importance.

Anderson also called for better communication and coming together of all players to make better changes in the sport and said, “Most important is a good communication. And one thing is certain when everybody’s on the same side and working together, big changes are possible.”

Having members as influential as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray on his side, Anderson will be confident of having the backing of various other players as well. Right now, information around the PTPA is murky and further clarifications from Djokovic are needed to know the solid idea of the newly formed body.

Read More: “Physical and Mental Issues Will Count”: Novak Djokovic Opens Up on Preparation for ATP Finals