Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has announced his departure from Tennis Australia to assume the role of CEO at the United States Tennis Association (USTA). Tiley, who has been at the helm of the Australian Open since 2006 and served as CEO of Tennis Australia since 2013, will continue in his current role until a successor is appointed in the coming months.
“Leading this team has been the privilege of my life,” Tiley stated. “I am incredibly proud that Tennis Australia is now recognised globally as the player’s partner and the benchmark for the sport, events, and entertainment.”
Transformative Leadership at Tennis Australia
Under Tiley’s leadership, Tennis Australia has experienced significant growth and transformation. The organization is celebrated for its innovative approaches and inclusive programs, which have made tennis one of the nation’s most popular sports. Participation in tennis increased by 8% last year, reflecting the sport’s growing appeal.
Tennis Australia Chair Chris Harrop praised Tiley’s impact, noting that the sport’s engagement has “gone from strength to strength.” Harrop highlighted initiatives like the Hot Shots program and the One Point Slam as examples of the organization’s innovative spirit under Tiley’s guidance.
“Tennis Australia is now globally renowned for its innovation, inclusiveness, and event management, as showcased in an outstanding Summer of Tennis which culminated in another record-breaking Australian Open this year,” Harrop said.
Tiley’s Upcoming Role with the USTA
The USTA expressed enthusiasm for Tiley’s upcoming role, emphasizing his global credibility and commitment to grassroots tennis development. USTA Board Chair Brian Vahaly remarked on Tiley’s unique ability to inspire growth and leverage the US Open as a platform for expanding the sport’s reach.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots,” Vahaly stated. “Craig’s leadership and understanding of the entire tennis ecosystem will be invaluable.”
Tiley is expected to officially take on his responsibilities with the USTA in the coming months, marking a new chapter in his distinguished career. His previous experience as a successful coach in the US college system, where he led the University of Illinois men’s team to prominence, further underscores his readiness for this new challenge.
The Search for a Successor
As Tiley prepares to transition to his new role, Tennis Australia has initiated the search for his successor. An international executive recruitment firm has been appointed to find a leader who can continue the organization’s trajectory of growth and innovation.
This leadership change comes at a pivotal time for Tennis Australia, as the organization seeks to build on the momentum generated during Tiley’s tenure. The next CEO will be tasked with maintaining the sport’s popularity and fostering the next generation of players and coaches.
Meanwhile, Tiley’s move to the USTA is seen as a significant opportunity for the US governing body to harness his expertise and vision. As tennis continues to evolve globally, Tiley’s leadership is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the sport both in the United States and worldwide.
