Novak Djokovic’s New Player Union Receives Feedback From Roger Federer And Rafael Nadal

World number one player Novak Djokovic introduced the new Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) as a separate body from the ATP. This serves as the first players-only council since 1972 and has received feedback from some of the sports’ most influential figures, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

"The world is living a difficult and complicated situation. I personally believe these are times to be calm and work all of us together in the same direction. It is time for unity, not for separation," Nadal tweeted.

The 19-time Grand Slam winner also added the need for all bodies to work together as one in the world’s current context.

“These are moments where big things can be achieved as long as the world of tennis is united. We all, players, tournaments and governing bodies have to work together. We have a bigger problem and separation and disunion is definitely not the solution,” Nadal continued.

The record holder for most majors won in the male division, Federer also chipped in his thoughts to the situation. While he agrees with Nadal, Federer calls for the unity of players throughout these difficult times.

“These are uncertain and challenging times, but I believe it’s critical for us to stand united as players, and as a sport, to pave the best way forward,” Federer wrote.

The idea of Djokovic to push through with the PTPA is a completion of the vision some players had two decades ago.

"This is not a new idea. This hasn't been something that came out of the blue. This has been a project for many players and many different generations over the last 20-plus years,” Djokovic said by way of CNN.

One of the key points of the association is to ensure that players receive maximum benefits from their years playing on tour.

"I certainly think it's the right step forward for the players because I think it unifies the players. It allows them to have a platform, to have an association through which they will be able to express themselves better where they will be able to talk about the ideas, the interests, and the things that are related to the players," Djokovic added.

There has also been criticism of the council as it depicts a lack of women inclusion in the association. This has raised the concern if the PTPA is really diverse as it claims to be.

It will be interesting to see how these bodies develop in the coming months and how it can apply the feedback it's receiving in the near future.