Under a three-year agreement, Infosys will serve as the official “digital innovation partner” for the Australian Open. The company plans to revolutionize the fan experience by leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and both virtual and augmented reality.
The previous partnership with IBM, which spanned over two decades, concluded in October 2017. IBM had been instrumental in providing a range of technological services, including web hosting, IT support, and mobile app functionalities for fans. Although the specific reasons for the partnership’s end were not publicly disclosed, it is believed that IBM opted to step back due to the high costs associated with sponsorship and service provision.
IBM’s contributions to the Melbourne event were significant, introducing innovations like the ‘speed serve system’ in 1993 and more recent advancements in data analytics and social media sentiment analysis. These technological operations are now set to be managed by Infosys.
Tournament director Craig Tiley expressed optimism about the new partnership, stating, “Collaborating with Infosys is an exciting progression in our mission to innovate the Australian Open and engage audiences worldwide. We have long recognized the value of data and insights in enhancing our connections with fans, players, coaches, and the broader tennis community. We look forward to working with Infosys to transform how we all experience this remarkable sport in the future.”
Salil Parekh, managing director of Infosys, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the company’s commitment to delivering innovative experiences at the Australian Open. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to demonstrate how digital technologies can redefine the boundaries of this tournament, altering the way the Australian Open is watched, analyzed, and played,” he remarked.
This partnership also underscores Infosys’s strategic focus on the region, where it collaborates with leading enterprises to drive digital transformation initiatives. However, the full scope of Infosys’s involvement in the Australian Open’s technological infrastructure is yet to be fully revealed.