Nicole Metzger will serve as the new CRO of the World Surf League. Photo: WSL
The World Surf League (WSL) today announced the appointment of a new Chief Revenue Officer. Nicole Metzger will be the organization’s new CRO, a role in which she will oversee the WSL’s global partnerships, licensing, and business development functions.
Though she is a newcomer to the world of surfing, Metzger is no stranger to professional sports. Her most recent job was Chief Sales and Partnerships Officer for the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA). Before that, she was the Vice President of Partnerships, Activation, Analytics, and Special Events with the Miami Dolphins and Vice President or Partnership Development for the Charlotte Hornets.
“Nicole brings significant experience and success in sports partnerships and revenue generation to the WSL,” said Ryan Crosby, Chief Executive Officer. “She is joining us at a pivotal time, as we look to expand our global footprint through our commercial partnerships. Nicole’s extensive background in driving partnerships through innovative approaches will no doubt progress our continued growth and future success.”
“I am absolutely thrilled to join the WSL at such a dynamic moment for the league and the sport,” said Metzger. “Surfing is not just a sport – it’s a global lifestyle with an incredibly passionate and engaged community. I see tremendous opportunity to create impactful, purpose-driven partnerships that connect brands to this culture in authentic, meaningful ways. I’m honored to help lead the WSL into its next phase of growth and global influence.”
The announcement comes in a transitional period for the league. Last year, the WSL hired new management, appointing Ryan Crosby as CEO. Since then, the WSL announced that the controversial Final 5 format would be scrapped for 2026 in favor of determining the champion via point standings at the end of the season – a move which Crosby said would “represent a new era.”
