The topsy-turvey ATP leader search at long last concluded Thursday with the announcement that long-time insider Brad Drewett will take over as Exec Chair & President. He has a three-year deal. The board Wednesday was still deciding between Drewett and ATP CEO of the Americas Mark Young. The incumbent, Adam Helfant, announced in May he would not renew his deal after he was unable to come to terms on a new contract. The ATP search, conducted without a search firm, immediately focused on Drewett and Young, but players balked at what they saw as management insiders. The focus then turned to Ian Ritchie, the CEO of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, but he dropped out after his name was leaked. Former Wimbledon champion Richard Krajicek then became a top contender, but tourneys balked at his lack of experience. Players were split over his candidacy, with Roger Federer, president of the Player Council, opposed. Krajicek pulled out earlier this month. That left the board with either the two original candidates or hiring a search firm to go outside the sport. Drewett, a 53-year-old Aussie who reached a career-high rank of 34, will be based in London. He has run the ATP’s Middle East, Asia and Pacific region.
