Lew Sherr, the current chief revenue officer of the USTA, has been named USTA chief executive officer and executive director. According to USTA Chairman of the Board and President Mike McNulty, Sherr will begin in his new role on May 2.

In his new role, Sherr will partner with the USTA Board of Directors to set the strategy for tennis’ growth in the U.S.

Over the past two years, tennis has seen a 27.9 percent increase in participation, growing by approximately 4.9 million players in that time period. In 2020, participation in the sport increased by 22 percent, with four million more players than in 2019. In 2021, the trend continued with an additional one million U.S. players, a 4.5 percent increase over 2020.

Another top priority for Sherr, who has laid out a growth strategy for the association and the sport, is to increase services and support for the 17 USTA Sectional Associations. He also plans to accelerate the USTA’s digital platform.

As USTA’s Chief Revenue Officer, Sherr drove all revenue streams including sponsorship, broadcast revenue, attendance, and ticketing revenue.

“I’m excited to assume this position at such an important time for tennis,” said Sherr. “I look forward to working closely with our talented national staff, our 17 sections, the incredibly passionate volunteer base, as well as all of the important stakeholders in our sport at every level. I know that tennis is a sport that can enhance lives and longevity, and it’s our responsibility to share it with as many people as possible. I thank the USTA Board for this opportunity, and I am eager to help lead this association–and the sport of tennis–to greater growth and long-term success.”

Sherr is a veteran of sports, entertainment and media properties. Prior to the USTA, Sherr was senior vice president of marketing partnerships for Madison Square Garden where he directed sponsorship activities of MSG’s Entertainment Division. He also held senior-level roles at Time Warner Global Marketing and Clear Channel Advantage and worked for seven years at Wilson Sporting Goods Company.

Photo courtesy USTA