News

FLUSHING, N.Y. — The USTA and IBM announced today the launch of USOpen.org, one of the most highly trafficked websites of any annual sports event, with a wide array of new features that will make USOpen.org one of the most technologically sophisticated websites in all of sports.

USOpen.org is the premier source and destination for multi-media coverage of the US Open, delivering a personalized online experience for each tennis fan. For 2009, the website has added a number of new enhancements that will make USOpen.org and the US Open accessible from virtually anywhere on the planet.

USOpen.org will stream all matches within the ESPN and Tennis Channel broadcast windows, giving users within the United States the ability to watch over 150 matches on their computer during the course of the two-week event.

In addition to USOpen.org’s mobile site, the USTA and IBM are introducing a new mobile application for the iPhone with special features sponsored by American Express. The iPhone App will feature live scores, video, news, venue information, and USOpen.org Radio with “Ask the Booth”, an enhancement from American Express, which allows users to submit questions that will be answered by tennis insiders throughout the tournament. American Express also provides an interactive grounds map and video content with pro players. Follow news and updates from every player in both the men’s and women’s draws with customizable SMS alerts. The US Open’s mobile offerings allow users to access USOpen.org’s extensive content without the use of a computer regardless of device or carrier.

Additionally, USOpen.org will feature an extensive focus on social media, with updates, links and promotions coming from pages such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

“Our continuous goal is to use new media to bring fans ever closer to the US Open and its participants,” said Pierce O’Neil, Chief Business Officer, USTA. “By working closely with IBM, we are proud to introduce many new broadband, interactive and mobile features, all designed to allow our fans never-before-seen access to the world’s premier tennis event.”

“The USTA is dedicated to leading the way with regards to the digital media options we offer to tennis enthusiasts,” said Phil Green, Senior Director, Advanced Media, USTA. “By leveraging all of the interactive tools at our disposal, we allow our fans to access the US Open where ever they are, whenever they want and on whatever device they prefer.”

“It’s incredible to see how the internet continues to evolve on a daily basis,” said Rick Singer, Vice President, Client Executive Marketing, IBM. “Given the ongoing change, we’re constantly challenged to stay ahead of the changing needs of US Open fans around the world. This year’s website does just that by introducing new ways for fans to interact with the tournament wherever they are.”

IBM, the USTA’s exclusive information technology solution provider, developed and hosts the site (usopen.org). USOpen.org generated an all-time record 41 million visits during last year’s US Open, which represents a 37% increase from the record visits in 2007.

New features for 2009 include: