NRL CEO quits in surprise mid-season move with switch to lead rival code

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo has resigned to lead Tennis Australia.

Abdo’s departure was confirmed in a press conference on Monday afternoon, with the respected administrator leaving rugby league after a six-year stint at the helm.

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He’ll switch sports after former Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley left for the chief executive position at the United States Tennis Association.

Abdo, who took over as NRL CEO from Todd Greenberg in 2020, has been integral to the stunning growth of the game after starting out under the extraordinary circumstances of the Covid-19 global pandemic.

Alongside ARLC chairman Peter V’landys, Abdo has overseen the entry of a new expansion team (Dolphins, 2023), with two more expansion teams due to join in 2027 (Bears) and 2028 (PNG Chiefs).

The NRL’s finances have never been in a better position, with the competition’s annual revenue close to reaching $1 billion.

The game is now negotiating a new broadcast deal for 2028 onwards.

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Abdo heaped praise on rugby league as a sport in a statement released on Monday, saying: “Leading the NRL has been a privilege and the highlight of my career.

“Together we have built a strong, innovative and resilient organisation, expanded the reach of the game and positioned it for an exciting future.

“Rugby league has given me opportunities I could only have dreamed of, experiences that cannot be compared and I have made friendships for a lifetime. It has been an honour to be part of the rugby league family.

“The NRL is in a strong position — strategically, commercially and in how it is governed.

“The game doesn’t stand still, and it shouldn’t. The game means so much to so many and the future of Rugby League has never been more exciting. I look forward to watching that continued success from the outside.”

V’landys, meanwhile, labelled Abdo “one of the best things that has happened to the game”.

“I said when he was appointed that he would be the best NRL CEO ever and he has been,” V’landys said.

“Andrew’s professionalism, conscientiousness and work ethic will be impossible to replace.

“I am very sad, however, the opportunity he has been given to run Tennis Australia is a testament to how good he is.

“We respect his decision. This is a significant opportunity and one he has earned.

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“On a personal note, you would not meet a more loyal person than Andrew and I’m very fortunate to have had him as a friend and confidant.

“On behalf of the Commission, I thank Andrew for his contribution and wish him well in the role ahead.”

During their press conference, Abdo confirmed he made the final decision to join Tennis Australia in the last “day” or even within the last “few hours”.

He also confirmed Tennis Australia approached him weeks ago regarding their vacancy.

Abdo also heaped praise on V’landys, having worked side by side with the experienced administrator who will assume his responsibilites when he departs in June.

“Peter is a genuine leader and he has backed me from the start. His vision for the future, his loyalty, support, guidance and drive has provided me with both inspiration and confidence,” he said.

“Peter is someone you want with you for any challenge or opportunity.

“I’ve valued his trust and his willingness to challenge thinking and push the organisation forward. That has shaped both the organisation and me. I value the bond and friendship we have developed over the last 7 years.”

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