"The players did not participate enough in the discussions," Djokovic slams his fist on the table regarding the new Masters 1000 format

le 23/08/2025 à 08h23

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic is preparing to compete in the US Open. It was at this same tournament that he won his 24th—and currently most recent—Grand Slam of his illustrious career two years ago.

His motivation remains undiminished at 38 years old. As co-founder of the PTPA (with Vasek Pospisil in 2019), an association aimed at defending the interests of tour players, Djokovic was present at a press conference and was asked about the extension of the Masters 1000 tournaments, which now nearly all take place over twelve days or even two weeks instead of the previous one week. The Serb spoke candidly on the subject in recent hours.

"I don’t see how the ATP and WTA will reverse their decision, to be honest. Unless the tournament directors and ATP leadership come together and agree to go back, but I highly doubt that.

I don’t know the tournaments’ position, to be frank. But I’ve noticed that many top players are opposed to the Masters 1000 format change.
I fully support the players.

However, in the end, when they needed to be active and a decision had to be made, the players did not participate enough in the discussions. It’s a crucial conversation, and players must be involved as much as possible.

They share their opinions, but in this case, it’s also necessary to take the time and energy to be involved in the discussions and meetings, even though I know it’s difficult. I’ve taken part in negotiations very often, believe me.

But it’s a necessary step because, you know, the decisions you make now don’t just affect you, but also future generations, so it’s important to contribute to making the right choices. We’ll see what happens.

I doubt anything will change in the near future regarding these contracts, which provide significant revenue for the tournaments," Djokovic stated to The Tennis Letter.

"... regarding these contracts, which provide significant revenue ...".
Let's start at the top:
There are people who want to make money.
They make money providing entertainment.
The type of entertainment is sports.
The particular sport is tennis.

See where tennis is on the list.

I remember the arrogant Alcazar distancing himself from Djokovic when Novak was in negotiations with the ATP with the intention to prevent bad things happening. Clearly, the Spanish snob didn't participate in the discussions. And now he has the balls to cry how the tournaments are long and he has to play so much. Well. Sleep in the bed you made.