By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | January 3, 2024
Photo courtesy: TennisTV
Novak Djokovic understands that tennis operates fundamentally as a business.
Regarded as the GOAT of tennis, Djokovic is also recognized as the MOAT.
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The Serbian sensation currently holds the title for the highest career prize earnings in professional tennis, amassing over $185 million in his illustrious journey.
When polled about Nick Kyrgios’ remarks stating that tennis players are “absurdly” undercompensated, Djokovic wholeheartedly endorsed Kyrgios’ perspective.
Djokovic articulated that, in comparison to other substantial sports, tennis players are not receiving an equitable share of the financial rewards.
“Let’s state a fact here. This isn’t merely my opinion,” Djokovic expressed in a press conference in Brisbane. “What [Kyrgios] is saying is accurate. In major American sports like the NFL, NBA, baseball, and NHL, players receive a revenue share of approximately 50% or even higher; ours, however, is significantly less.”
“It’s undeniable that our sport operates under a different framework as it’s international and subject to various national rules, regulations, and tax structures,” he continued. “Each tournament independently dictates its own prize distribution. Then there’s the ATP, WTA, and the Grand Slams, all functioning as separate entities with their own agendas. It presents a rather fragmented scenario.”
Kyrgios, a former Wimbledon finalist, dubbed player compensation a “joke,” especially given the global nature of tennis.
“The touring structure is ludicrous compared to other sports,” Kyrgios lamented. “The intense travel demands we face, coupled with inadequate pay, is somewhat absurd—it truly is a joke.”
Having formerly served as President of the ATP Player Council, Djokovic, along with Vasek Pospisil, initiated The Professional Tennis Players Association aimed at ensuring comprehensive representation for professional players in the decision-making landscape of the sport.
In Brisbane, Djokovic reiterated his long-standing belief that the ATP’s Board of Directors structure fails to adequately advocate for player interests.
“We face a significant issue in the fundamental—how can I say—structure of the ATP; as players, we only command 50% of that organization,” he remarked. “Time and again, we find ourselves in conflicting situations with tournaments. Our desires diverge.”
“We are integral to the system, and our fates are intertwined, yet we frequently find ourselves at odds,” he added. “We desire higher earnings, while tournament organizers may resist providing what we truly deserve in terms of prize money. The layers surrounding prize distribution are complex and multifaceted.”
“Essentially, what Nick posited holds true. Viewed from a broader lens, the percentage of revenue allocated to players pales in comparison to that of most other global sports, particularly those in America.”
