Former Davis Cup player Lewis, who has been with the RFL just short of 10 years, will take over from Ian Ritchie, who left Wimbledon in December to take up the role of chief executive of the Rugby Football Union.

"I leave with a mixture of sadness but also excitement at taking up another wonderful opportunity," said Lewis.

Lewis reached a career-high world ranking of 68 and played in the Davis Cup from 1977-83 before moving into coaching, sports administration and business consultancy.

Experience

He will continue in his position of chair of Sport England, a role he took up on a part-time basis when switching from the post of executive chairman of the RFL three years ago.

Lewis was director of tennis at the LTA from 1998-2000 and joined the RFL in May 2002.

"In Richard Lewis we have the person with the right blend of sporting background and management skill and experience to ensure the All England Club and the (Wimbledon) championships continue to go from strength to strength," club chairman Philip Brook said in a statement.

Lewis, who will take up his new role on May 1, added: "As a former tennis professional, the prospect of helping shape the future of the Club and the premier tennis tournament in the world is one to be relished.

"I leave the RFL after 10 fulfilling years during which the sport has grown and prospered.

"I am extremely grateful to all the colleagues with whom I have had the privilege to work. I shall enjoy continuing my role at Sport England albeit with less time commitment."