Sawt Falasteen - Abdo quits as NRL boss to take over at Tennis Australia

Abdo has steered the hugely popular NRL over almost six years in which the sport has drawn record TV ratings and major expansions in Papua New Guinea and western Australia.

"He has been loyal, he has been hard working, he has been every adjective I can think of. I can't think of a better CEO," said Australian Rugby League commissioner Peter V'landys, who will take over from Abdo until a permanent successor can be found.

"The rapid growth of the game in the last six years has been extraordinary," added V'landys.

"We've got more viewers, more revenue, more assets, more everything."

Abdo takes over at Tennis Australia from Craig Tiley, who announced in February that was stepping down to run the United States Tennis Association.

"Today's a pretty emotional day for me," Abdo said.

"I love rugby league, it's part of my DNA.

"Rugby league is only just getting started on its growth potential, the game is scratching the surface of what is possible, and there is literally no limit to where this game will go."

He said he would continue as NRL CEO until July 15 but was looking forward to starting his new job.

"Tennis Australia has a unique role in Australian sport," said Abdo.

"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," he said.

"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, in announcing Abdo's appointment, said it was the result of an extensive global search.

"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," said Harrop.

"He is well placed to lead tennis in Australia into its next phase."

Harrop paid tribute to the outgoing CEO.

"We also acknowledge Craig Tiley's extraordinary contribution over more than two decades with Tennis Australia," Harrop said.

"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."

D.AbuRida--SF-PST