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5d ago

Steve Simon to Retire as WTA Chairman in December 2025

Simon’s decade-long leadership saw major strides in player pay, governance reforms, and global controversies, with the WTA now beginning its search for his successor.

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Steve Simon has been in charge of the WTA since 2015

Overview

  • Steve Simon has announced his decision to step down as WTA chairman at the end of 2025, concluding a 10-year tenure marked by transformative initiatives and challenges.
  • Under Simon’s leadership, the WTA committed to a $400 million increase in player compensation over a decade and partnered with CVC Capital Partners to drive commercial growth.
  • Simon led a high-profile boycott of China tournaments from 2021 to 2023 over concerns for Peng Shuai’s safety, resuming events after assurances of her well-being in 2023.
  • His tenure faced criticism, including backlash over a Saudi Arabia WTA Finals deal and a lawsuit by Lesia Tsurenko regarding the handling of Russian and Belarusian players during the Ukraine conflict.
  • The WTA has initiated a comprehensive search for Simon’s successor to ensure a smooth transition as the organization continues navigating complex global issues.