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Lew Sherr, head honcho at the US Tennis Association, is poised to swing his way out next month and head to the New York Mets, following his pivotal role in the Arthur Ashe Stadium's ambitious renovation proposals. With a strong background in sports business, including a stint at Madison Square Garden, Sherr has played a critical part in remodelling the USTA's elite player development initiative to boost American talent.

This April, Sherr unveiled plans for an audacious £600m ($800m) facelift for Arthur Ashe Stadium, home of the US Open; the transformation includes swathes of upgraded hospitality spaces, cutting-edge player facilities, and a revamped tournament format.

The grand project, expected to wrap up by the 2027 event, represents the heftiest investment ever in the U.S. Open's storied history.

In spite of the approaching US Open, Sherr is set to leave behind the USTA to embrace a new chapter with the Mets as their president of business operations, bowing out at June's end.

Since grabbing the USTA reins back in August 2022, Sherr has steered the association through financial revisions amidst the pandemic aftermath. His tenure is marked by the US Open smashing attendance records with over one million spectators and accruing revenues surpassing $500 million, underscoring his impressive leadership run.

In a touching declaration, Sherr shared his complex feelings about his move: "This is truly a bittersweet moment," he said.

"Over the past 15 years, the USTA has been so much more than just a workplace - it has been a community, a purpose, and a passion.

"While I will no longer be leading from within, I will always be cheering on the USTA and the work ahead. I'm immensely proud of what we've accomplished together and even more excited to see where our talented team takes it next."

With Sherr set to take over from Scott Havens as president of business operations at the New York Mets, optimism prevails.

Sherr's arrival at the Mets coincides with the team's promising performance, currently second in the NL East with a strong 34-22 record, bolstered by significant signings like Juan Soto, who secured a historic $765 million free agent contract.

As the USTA navigates this transition, Brian Vahaly, the board chairman, and Andrea Hirsch, the chief operating officer, will assume the roles of co-chief executives on an interim basis.

The association is poised to initiate a search for a permanent leader to succeed Sherr.