Richard Lewis has left his position as chairman of the Rugby Football League to become the new chief executive of Wimbledon.

Having played tennis professionally, Lewis admitted that the chance to shape the future for budding talent was too much of temptation to reject.

"I am delighted to be taking up the role of chief executive at the All England Club," he told the official Wimbledon website. "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."

Lewis represented Great Britain at Davis Cup level.