By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | April 14, 2025
Tensions rise as the ATP and PTPA clash.
This past Friday, both organizations found themselves in a Manhattan court, with the PTPA seeking a gag order against the ATP.
Reilly Opelka, one of the 12 ATP players entangled in the PTPA’s ongoing lawsuit launched on March 18, joined the proceedings via call from Barcelona. He revealed that during the Miami Open, a member of the ATP Player Council warned him about potential pension losses and mounting legal fees should he choose to support the case.
Recently, a group of tennis players filed a lawsuit against the ATP and WTA, citing numerous antitrust violations.
Accusations have surfaced that the ATP is pressuring players to denounce the lawsuit.
Reilly Opelka claims he faced threats from the ATP for backing the lawsuit ⬇️
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) April 12, 2025
Opelka disclosed that the unidentified player was tasked by ATP CEO Andrea Gaudenzi to relay the ominous message. While ATP representatives denied Opelka’s claims, they acknowledged efforts to persuade ATP players to reject the PTPA lawsuit shortly after it was filed.
Reports from Front Office Sports indicate that ATP Board Member Luben Pampoulov requested players at the Miami Open to back a statement disavowing the lawsuit, ceasing the petition dissemination once the PTPA’s gag order was initiated. Notably, only one player – American Ben Shelton – agreed to sign it.
In attendance, Vasek Pospisil confirmed that players are apprehensive about potential backlash from the ATP. Sources suggest the ATP may allocate between $50 and $100 million for legal proceedings. According to the tour’s bylaws, players must cover their own legal costs if they pursue litigation against the Tour and lose.
Court updates reveal that the presiding judge has granted both parties a week to submit new briefs regarding the gag order, with a ruling expected imminently.
