The American has been the tournament director and chief operating officer of the BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells Tennis tournament since 2004, with the two-week event having grown substantially under his leadership.

Outside of the four Grand Slams the tournament is considered to be the largest combined male and female tennis event, having become the most attended WTA and Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) tournament, and the WTA are confident that with his experience he is the ideal person to continue the development of the organisation.

"Steve Simon, with his successful career leading one of tennis' most prestigious tournaments, is the perfect person to run the WTA,” a statement from the WTA Board said.

“Steve produced results, pursued excellence and he kept innovating, making the fan experience even better.

“He has a very clear vision for the sport and is held in high regard by all."

Simon succeeds Canada’s Stacey Allaster in the role after she stepped down last month to spend more time with her family having held the post since 2009.

Allaster had been credited with leading the body through a period of unmitigated growth which took the women's game into new markets, while also pioneering the use of innovative data and technology.

Following his appointment Simon, who will wind down his role at Indian Wells before taking over fulltime at the WTA on November 30, praised his predecessor and expressed his excitement at being offered the chance to lead the organisation.

"I am humbled and at the same time very excited about the opportunity that has been presented to me by the Board," he said. 

"I will be focused on building upon the successful platforms that have been put in place by my predecessors, Stacey Allaster and Larry Scott, with a sole focus on driving excellence and innovation, while creating a premium experience for the fans."

His appointment has also received the backing of WTA founder Billie Jean King and current world number one Serena Williams, with the latter praising Simon for his support after she ended her 14-year boycott of the Indian Wells tournament in March.

Williams, alongside sister Venus, didn't play at the tournament amid allegations of racism from spectators.

"When I returned to Indian Wells this year, Steve could not have been more helpful, professional and supportive," she said. 

"I know how much he cares about the opinions of the players.

"He's a good listener and he has our best interests in mind."

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