PTPA vs. ATP - Djokovic gets support from McNamee
Has the ATP changed its rules regarding membership in the Players Council or not? Novak Djokovic and Jürgen Melzer have different views on this.
by tennisnet.com
last edit: Nov 29, 2020, 09:47 pm
Jürgen Melzer once again stated in his final press conference after the ATP Finals that the ATP Players Council is definitely pulling together. "We were a tight-knit group and tried to manage the whole thing well with the ATP management and the board members," said the Lower Austrian, who wants to end his career after the Australian Open in 2021.
"The PTPA is a completely different matter," continued Melzer. “Djokovic is talking about the fact that some kind of regulation has been made overnight, that nobody from the PTPA is allowed to participate in the council. This is utter nonsense. These Bylaws have been around since 2006. And it's also logical: If you found a counter-association, it is clear that you cannot be part of both. Common sense tells me. I am surprised that Djokovic is so surprised now. And that he thinks that it developed against him overnight. "
Djokovic - PTPA not in competition with the ATP
In fact, the world number one had shown it that way after his departure from Dominic Thiem in London. "Now we at least know where we stand," Djokovic had remarked somewhat defiantly in his press round. From his point of view, the PTPA is still anxious to get along well with the ATP.
Paul McNamee, tournament director of the Australian Open, apparently takes Djokovic's point of view. Also those that the ATP has changed something to the regulations (Bylaws) overnight. As the former doubles player announced on Twitter, this would exclude hundreds of players from being represented on their own tour.
How many athletes are actually behind the project initiated by Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil is unclear. At the solemn announcement of the founding of the PTPA, around 60 players had gathered on the court of the Louis Armstrong Stadium for a group photo. Women were not among them, but according to Djokovic they should be included in the near future.