Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley is reportedly being considered to become the next CEO of the United States Tennis Association (USTA). If the move goes through, it would be a major shift in tennis leadership, connecting two of the sport’s most influential governing bodies.
Craig Tiley Might Become Next USTA CEO
Tiley has been associated with tennis as a player, coach, and administrator. He has been the tournament director of the Australian Open since 2006 and has served as CEO of Tennis Australia since 2013. That experience in leadership and business makes him a suitable fit for the USTA.
According to Sportico, Tiley is considered the top choice after a six-month search led by executive firm Elevate, which the USTA hired in July. The search began after former CEO Lew Sherr announced his exit in June and was overseen by a committee that included board chairman Brian Vahaly, COO Andrea Hirsch, and other USTA board members.
Insiders cited in the report say the timing is significant, as global tennis undergoes major changes in its commercial structure, ownership, and investment landscape that could reshape the sport.
However, if the agreement with the USTA is finalized soon, it is still unclear whether Tiley would stay on through the 2026 Australian Open, which will take place from Jan. 12 to Feb. 1. The USTA has been running under interim leadership since June 30, after Sherr stepped down to take an opportunity outside tennis.
During Sherr’s time in charge, the organization saw major growth. The US Open hit record attendance numbers, secured a long-term broadcast deal with ESPN, and brought in more than $500 million in revenue. His tenure also included the controversial announcement of the $800 million renovation plan for the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
Tiley’s Journey and Influence in Global Tennis
Originally from South Africa, Tiley has built an impressive career in tennis leadership. He joined Tennis Australia in 2005 as director of tennis and was quickly promoted to Australian Open tournament director in 2006. In 2013, he became CEO of Tennis Australia.
During his time in charge, the Australian Open grew into one of the most fan-friendly events in tennis. Major upgrades to Melbourne Park, including new courts with retractable roofs and improved player facilities, helped make the tournament known for prioritizing players.
Under his leadership, participation programs also increased, and new developmental pathways were created for young players. He also guided the sport through the COVID-19 pandemic, successfully managing the planning needed to stage the 2021 and 2022 Australian Open.
Before moving into tennis administration, Tiley served as head men’s tennis coach at the University of Illinois, leading the team to an NCAA national title in 2003 and multiple Big Ten championships. His contributions were later honored with induction into the university’s Hall of Fame in 2017.
Tiley captained South Africa’s Davis Cup team from 1998 to 2001. He also won the Wilson/ITA Division I National Coach of the Year award twice and the Big Ten Coach of the Year award eight times in his career.