Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal call for unity as Novak Djokovic proposes new men’s tennis group

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are two players who the world is accustomed to seeing on the opposite sides of the tennis court.

But in a move that is of significant importance, the two tennis greats have come together to oppose Novak Djokovic’s call for the formation of a Professional Tennis Players Association, abbreviated PTPA.

It was the Spaniard who had first tweeted on Saturday.

“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 (sic).” This was followed by another tweet.

“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.”

A couple of hours later, the Swiss 20-time Grand Slam winner responded to Nadal’s tweet.

“I agree @RafaelNadal. 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.”

I agree @RafaelNadal. 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. https://t.co/foAmiLVrdV

— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) August 29, 2020

‘New association will protect the interests of the players’

Both of these reactions were in response to Novak Djokovic and Canada’s Vasek Pospisil formation of a Professional Tennis Players Association that would solely protect the interests of the players.

After a meeting among players at the conclusion of the Western and Southern Open in New York – where Nadal and Federer were absent – Djokovic announced that the new group was launched.

“After today’s successful meeting, we are excited to announce the beginning of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA),” Djokovic wrote on Instagram.

“The first player only association in tennis since 1972,” he added.

According to the Associated Press, a letter was also emailed to some of the players. Sent around shortly before Monday’s start of the U.S. Open, the letter says its objective is “to solicit support from players to form an association with a mandate to promote, protect and represent the interests of its players … and protect the future of tennis.”

The men’s tennis tour is organized by the ATP; the women’s tennis tour is run by the WTA.