Megan Rose appointed to lead the first men’s Rugby World Cup in the US
World Rugby appointed former tennis professional and USTA executive Megan Rose to lead the 2031 men’s Rugby World Cup in the United States. Her appointment comes while 25 cities are involved in the host-selection process. The competition is expected to use 11–13 venues, with city and venue decisions still pending.
Sports··Evening
Rose takes charge of the 2031 tournament
World Rugby, the international rugby union governing body, appointed Megan Rose as managing director of the 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup in the United States. The American former professional tennis player moves into the role after senior work at the United States Tennis Association, or USTA. The men’s tournament is coming to the US for the first time.[1], [2]
Rose is to oversee delivery of a 52-match competition expected to use 11–13 venues around the country. The United States also hosts the women’s tournament in 2033. World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin highlighted her experience with major events and her knowledge of the American sports landscape in explaining the appointment.[1], [2]
Twenty-five cities are in the selection process
The appointment comes while host-city applications are being assessed. 25 cities submitted detailed information at the end of August. Gilpin told Sports Business Journal that World Rugby hoped to select the cities and venues within the next six months, through negotiations with leaders in each market. The expected venue range remains a plan rather than a final selection.[1]
World Rugby is recruiting two further senior US executives: one to lead commercial work and another to concentrate on regional preparations through 2031. Gilpin cited Rose’s work with American cities and venues as a qualification for this phase. Rose said she wanted to work with USA Rugby, clubs, players and supporters on an impact extending beyond the tournament.[1], [2]
Tennis experience precedes the rugby move
Rose spent most of the past decade at the USTA. Most recently, she led business development and operations for its new coaching programme. During four years as managing director of major events, she oversaw the US Open Series, Billie Jean King Cup and Davis Cup. She also served as team leader for USA Olympic Tennis.[1], [2]
Before joining the USTA, she worked for more than four years at the Women’s Tennis Association and coached Princeton’s women’s team. As a player at the University of Miami she was a five-time collegiate All American and a national indoor champion. Her professional playing career included the WTA Tour before her move into coaching and administration. Sports Business Journal honoured her as a Game Changer in 2022.[1], [2]
