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Jay Clarke Withdraws from PTPA Lawsuit Against Tennis Governing Bodies
British tennis player Jay Clarke has opted to withdraw from the London-based lawsuit initiated by the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), a group championed by Novak Djokovic. The PTPA’s legal actions, spanning New York, Brussels, and London, have ignited controversy within professional tennis. These lawsuits target what the association terms “corrupt governing bodies,” with Wimbledon explicitly named as a “co-conspirator” in the proceedings.
Clarke Originally Named in London Case
Clarke, currently ranked No. 277 in the world, was initially among six players listed as plaintiffs in the London legal action. This anti-trust case notably cited an instance where Clarke was allegedly “not allowed to be sponsored by the alcohol brand, Grey Goose.”
The lawsuit in the United States includes notable tennis figures like Nick Kyrgios and Reilly Opelka, who are among the twelve plaintiffs seeking a jury trial in New York. Their aim is to challenge what they describe as a “cartel” operating within a “rigged game.”
Withdrawal Statement Cites Focus on Tennis
Clarke, originally from Derby, gained notoriety in 2019 for his mixed doubles partnership with Coco Gauff at Wimbledon, following a split with Harriet Dart. He has now released a public statement declaring his departure from the legal proceedings.
In his statement, Clarke affirmed, “While I continue to support many of my previous statements and believe in the necessity for enhanced support for players—especially at the lower tiers of the sport—I have decided to withdraw as a plaintiff.”
He further explained his decision by stating, “I do not entirely agree with the approach taken in this case, and at this point in my career, it is crucial for me to concentrate fully on my tennis endeavors without external distractions.”