Craig Tiley, the architect of the Australian Open’s growth into a global sporting spectacle, will depart Tennis Australia to grow the next Chief Executive Officer of the United States Tennis Association (USTA), the organizations announced Wednesday.
The appointment marks a significant shift for both tennis federations. Tiley, 64, will replace Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as president of business operations. Tiley’s move comes after 13 years leading Tennis Australia, a period that saw the Australian Open expand to a 15-day event and achieve record attendance, and revenue.
Tiley initially joined Tennis Australia as Director of Player Development in 2005, becoming Australian Open Tournament Director in 2006 and CEO in 2013. During his tenure, tennis participation in Australia increased, rising eight percent in the past year, according to Tennis Australia. “Leading this team has been the privilege of my life,” Tiley said in a statement. “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.”
The USTA, which oversees the US Open, has been focused on growing participation in the sport, aiming to reach 35 million players by 2035. Brian Vahaly, the USTA Board Chair and interim Co-CEO, highlighted Tiley’s experience as a key factor in the decision. “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 said. “That balance is exactly what this moment requires.”
Prior to his role in Australia, Tiley had a distinguished career in American collegiate tennis, serving as head coach of the men’s team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, leading them to an NCAA championship and a 32-0 record in 2003. He also has experience in community tennis administration. Tiley stated he was “excited to return to American tennis” and collaborate with USTA leadership to expand the sport’s reach.
Tiley will remain in his current role at Tennis Australia for the coming months to facilitate the appointment of his successor and ensure a smooth transition. The USTA has not yet announced a formal start date for Tiley’s tenure.
