The players' union co-founded by Novak Djokovic has begun legal action against tennis' governing bodies, citing "anti-competitive practices and a blatant disregard for player welfare".
The Professional Tennis Players' Association (PTPA) has filed papers at the United States District Court in New York, where it is seeking a jury trial.
The 146-page lawsuit, which has been seen by BBC Sport, says "professional tennis players are stuck in a rigged game" which gives them "limited control over their own careers and brands".
The lawsuit criticises the schedule, ranking systems and control over image rights.
The complaint is being brought by the PTPA and 12 players - including Djokovic, his co-founder Vasek Pospisil and Nick Kyrgios - "on behalf of the entire player population".