TENNIS AUSTRALIA has appointed NRL (National Rugby League) CEO Andrew Abdo as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a global search.
Abdo succeeds Craig Tiley, who announced earlier this year that he would be leaving to become CEO of the United States Tennis Association.
Abdo said: “Tennis Australia has a unique role in Australian sport. The Australian Open is already one of the leading sporting events in the world. The opportunity is to keep evolving it – as a global event, as a fan experience, and as a platform that brings more people into the sport. What excites me about this role is the opportunity to grow participation, strengthen development pathways and ensure success at the elite level – so that more young Australians pick up a racquet and stay lifelong participants. I am excited to build off the incredible success and strength of Tennis Australia to work with an amazing team and to play my part taking the sport to the next level in Australia and on the global stage.”
Tennis Australia chair Chris Harrop commented, “Following a highly competitive search that attracted more than 150 candidates, Andrew Abdo stood out because of his strong track record of leadership in a high-profile sports organisation and the impressive impact he has had from community level through to the elite levels of the game. He is well placed to lead tennis in Australia into its next phase. We also acknowledge Craig Tiley’s extraordinary contribution over more than two decades with Tennis Australia. Under his leadership, the organisation has become globally recognised for its innovation, inclusivity and world-class events, highlighted by the continued growth of the Australian Open.”
Tiley said he was confident in Abdo’s appointment and that his immediate focus would be ensuring a smooth transition.
