ESS renews contract of Australian Open broadcast rights

ESS will now broadcast the Australian Open till 2014

ESPN STAR Sports (ESS) announced its new seven year contract for the Australian Open covering cable and satellite, IPTV, DTH and terrestrial rights, till 2014. ESS and Tennis Australia have also agreed to collaborate on new media platforms such as mobile telephony and the Internet.

The new contract gives ESS rights for the entire territory, including China, for 2008. Beginning 2009, the rights will cover 23 countries across South Asia, Southeast Asia and North Asia, excluding China.

ESS renews contract of Australian Open broadcast rights

Manu Sawhney, managing director, ESS, says, “The Australian Open has always occupied a special place in Asian sports fans’ hearts with its legacy as one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world of tennis. We have built a very successful partnership with Tennis Australia over the last six years and we are extremely pleased to now extend our relationship for another seven years. With the strong equity that our brands enjoy across Asia and the strength of our new media platforms, including mobile and online, we are committed to further strengthen the appeal and distribution of the Australian Open across Asia and to continue its growth as the Grand Slam of the Asia Pacific.”

Steve Wood, chief executive officer, Tennis Australia, says, “The new deal marks a new chapter in a very strong relationship with ESPN STAR Sports. We appreciate, in particular, how well ESS has continued to promote the event and contributed to raising the popularity of the Australian Open across Asia. We look forward to continuing that growth with ESS’ support.”

ESS will continue to support the Australian Open match coverage with comprehensive presentation packages, including daily highlights, news and analysis and behind the scene peeks at the tournament.

The latest acquisition adds to a stellar list of the world’s top tennis events already airing on the ESS network, including the Wimbledon throughout Asia, the French Open in South Asia, the ATP Masters Series, which comprises 10 of the best tennis tournaments outside of the Grand Slams, and the Hyundai Hopman Cup, the ITF official international mixed teams competition.

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