New players’ body launched as Murray airs his opposition

Novak Djokovich as announced the launch of a breakaway men’s player association, despite strong opposition from Andy Murray, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

World No 1 Djokovic and Canadian player Vasek Pospisil are behind the formation of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which they hope can co-exist alongside the ATP Player Council.

The first players to sign up for the PT PA met on Saturday at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre in New York, where the US Open begins today. Around 60 players posed for a photo posted on social media, but Federer, Nadal and Murray have all spo - ken out against the idea, while the ATP, WTA, ITF and all four grand slams have also called for unity.

Murray said he would not be signing a letter of support, adding: “I’m not totally against a player union, player ass o ciation, but I feel like the current management that are in place should be given some time to implement their vision.

“Whether that works out or not would potentially influence me in the future as to which way I would go.

“Also the fact that the women aren’t par t of it. I feel like that would send a much more powerful message personally if the WTA were on board with it as well. That’s not currently the case.”