Steve Simon, the chairman of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), will officially step down from his role in December, drawing the curtain on a decade-long stint at the top of women’s professional tennis administration.
Simon first joined the WTA in 2015 as Chief Executive Officer, a position he held until July 2024 when Portia Archer was appointed as his successor. While Archer now oversees the organisation’s operational strategy, Simon remained in the chairman’s role—until his decision to move on at the end of this season.
A Decade of Growth and Challenges
During his time with the WTA, Simon helped steer the sport through both its expansion and its most testing moments. From championing equal prize money to promoting global tournaments and player safety, his tenure was marked by efforts to build a more unified and commercially competitive tour.
“Since day one, I have worked to deliver positive change and growth for women’s tennis, and to promote dialogue and collaboration between players, tournaments and partners across the game,” Simon said in a statement issued by the WTA. “I am proud of what we have accomplished and look forward to watching the continued rise of women’s tennis in years to come.”
What Comes Next for the WTA
Simon’s departure comes at a crucial moment, with the WTA aiming to deepen its global presence and improve player conditions across tournaments. As Portia Archer leads the tour into its next chapter, the focus will now shift to who takes over the chairman’s position—a role vital to maintaining stability while driving strategic growth.
The WTA has not yet named a replacement for Simon, but the transition signals a new era for women’s tennis, with opportunities to reimagine its future both on and off the court.