Archer will assume the role on 29 July having previously held senior positions at NBC Sports Group, HBO and the BBC. As well as holding an MBA in Management and Finance from Columbia Business School and a BA in Public Policy and Economics from the University of Chicago, she also serves as a governance committee chair on Billie Jean King's Women's Sports Foundation.

Simon, who was CEO and chairman, will continue as chairman with a focus on governance and strategic development. Archer, the organisation's first black CEO, will lead the day-to-day strategy and operations of the Hologic WTA Tour and the WTA's relationship with its player and tournament members. King, who founded the WTA in 1973, was quick to pass on her congratulations.

Following the announcement, Archer said, "The WTA is an organisation I have long admired. It has pioneered the growth and development of women’s professional sport around the world, and I am excited to have the opportunity to join the team as we deliver our ambitions for the Tour and write the next chapter of the WTA story."

"I am delighted to welcome Portia to the WTA," stated Simon, who received criticism over both the staging of the 2023 WTA Finals in Cancun and its future move to Saudi Arabia. "She will be a fantastic addition to our leadership team, bringing a wealth of management experience and helping to drive operational excellence across the organisation as we work together to further elevate women’s tennis for the benefit of players, fans, partners and tournaments."

The WTA's controversial link-up with the Saudi Tennis Federation - which will see Riyadh host the next three season-ending WTA Finals - is also billed as supporting the future development and growth of women’s tennis via increased investment in marketing, digital and fan engagement.