Alcaraz Surprised by Inclusion in PTPA Lawsuit Against Tennis Governing Bodies

Blindsided by the Lawsuit

Tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz, currently ranked world number three, expressed his surprise at being unwittingly dragged into the Professional Tennis Players' Association's (PTPA) class-action lawsuit against the sport's governing bodies.

The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday, accuses the ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation, and International Tennis Integrity Agency of anti-competitive practices and disregard for player welfare. Alcaraz's name appeared in the 163-page document, citing a quote he made last September criticizing the demanding tennis schedule.

Unaware and Unsupportive

Speaking to reporters at the Miami Open, Alcaraz stated, "It was surprising for me, because no one had told me about it. Yesterday I saw on social media that they put something I said in a press conference in the documents and I wasn't aware of it." He further clarified his stance: "I honestly don't support that letter, because I wasn't aware of it."

Governing Bodies Fire Back

The ATP and WTA have vehemently refuted the PTPA's claims. The ATP accused the player advocacy group of creating "division and distraction," while the WTA labeled the lawsuit as "regrettable and misguided."

Conflicting Perspectives on Player Support

Despite the governing bodies' pushback, PTPA co-founder Vasek Pospisil asserted that the organization enjoys widespread support from over 300 players, including top-ranked athletes. Australian player Nick Kyrgios, one of the plaintiffs named in the lawsuit, hailed it as a "special moment," emphasizing the need for players' voices to be heard.

Alcaraz's Mixed Feelings

While Alcaraz acknowledged some agreement with the PTPA's concerns, he ultimately distanced himself from the lawsuit, stating, "There are things I agree with and there are other things I don't agree with. Anyway, the main thing is I don't support what was done."