Tennis Australia has announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Craig Tiley, will be stepping down from his role to assume the position of CEO for the United States Tennis Association (USTA).
Tiley will continue to serve in his current capacity for the next few months, assisting Tennis Australia in the search for his successor and ensuring a seamless transition of leadership.
Having joined Tennis Australia in 2005 as Director of Player Development, Tiley’s career progressed rapidly. He became the Australian Open Tournament Director in 2006 and was appointed CEO in 2013. During his tenure, Australian tennis and the Australian Open experienced remarkable growth and innovation.
“It has been the greatest privilege of my life to lead this team,” Tiley stated. “I am incredibly proud that Tennis Australia is now recognized globally as a strong partner for players and a benchmark in sports, events, and entertainment.”
He added, “Australian tennis is in excellent health, with participation increasing by eight percent last year, making it one of the nation’s most popular sports. We have top-tier players excelling internationally and a world-class team developing future talent. My greatest joy has been collaborating with the passionate and committed individuals within the Australian tennis community.”
While excited about the new challenge at the USTA, Tiley emphasized his immediate focus on guaranteeing a smooth handover, aiming to leave the sport, the business, and the team in optimal condition.
Chris Harrop, Chair of Tennis Australia, commended Tiley’s leadership, calling his impact “transformative.”
“Under Craig’s guidance, engagement and participation in our sport have soared,” Harrop noted. “Tennis has become a central part of many Australians’ lives, from grassroots programs like Hot Shots to competitive club play, and thrilling innovations such as the One Point Slam.”
Harrop further highlighted, “Tennis Australia has earned a global reputation for innovation, inclusivity, and exceptional event management, exemplified by the outstanding Summer of Tennis culminating in another record-breaking Australian Open this year. Craig’s selection for one of the most significant roles in global sport is a testament to the strength and caliber of our organization.”
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Craig for his immense contributions to Australian tennis and for cultivating an exceptional team fully prepared for continued success. We have initiated a comprehensive search, both internally and externally, for a new CEO and anticipate an organized transition,” Harrop concluded.
International executive recruitment firm Egon Zehnder has been tasked with leading the search for Tiley’s replacement.
