PERFORM in half billion media deal with WTA

Sports data provider PERFORM has entered into a record 10-year media extension deal worth around US$ 525 million with the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).

This extension to PERFORM’s existing partnership with the WTA marks the largest live media rights and production venture in the history of the WTA and in women’s sports.

The initiative will operate under the WTA Media banner, a joint endeavour between both organisations that will deliver premium content, an increase of 40 percent in the production of news content, additional magazine shows and off-court content to support the WTA’s mobile, digital and social media strategy.

Stacey Allaster, WTA Chairman & chief executive officer, said, “This is a game-changing and historic moment for our fans and for women’s sport. Our new broadcast strategy to produce all 2000 main draw singles matches in partnership with PERFORM will deliver exponential global exposure for our players, tournaments and partners.”

“We are strong believers in the exceptional sport entertainment value of the WTA and are committed to driving the value for all WTA members and partners,” commented Simon Denyer, joint chief executive officer for PERFORM. “This deal also delivers maximum exposure to the WTA’s global fans on multiple platforms. This is a ground-breaking and innovative partnership with the WTA and is also a major first step in a significant 10 year growth plan for PERFORM.”

In related news, PERFORM GROUP delisted from the London Stock Exchange yesterday following its takeover by Access Industries’ (see previous reports).