Kirsten Corio, the Chief Commercial Officer of USTA, reveals the buzz around record-breaking ticket sales for the US Open this year. Shiz Suzuki from American Express talks about exclusive experiences available for card members at the event. Chris Studley discusses the diverse food and beverage options, including the famed Honey Deuce cocktail. John Mousseau shares insights on financial strategies in the context of major sporting events, highlighting economic recovery and consumer behavior trends.
The 2024 US Open achieved record attendance with over 74,000 fans on opening day, driven by increased ticket demand and player popularity.
USTA's efforts to engage younger audiences during Fan Week are proving successful, resulting in higher conversions to main draw ticket sales.
American Express showcases the significance of strategic partnerships by enhancing customer experiences through interactive fan engagement and data-driven marketing strategies.
Deep dives
Generative AI as the New Operating System
Generative AI is poised to transform the internet into a new operating system, seamlessly integrating into all aspects of products, services, and applications. Companies are encouraged to embark on their AI journeys, considering the immense potential and competitive advantages it can provide. The technology is not merely a trend but a significant shift that can lead to performance enhancements across various industries. As businesses navigate this transition, developing a robust AI culture becomes essential for long-term success.
Intelligent Infrastructure for Enhanced Performance
To capitalize on the new wave of AI, achieving maximum performance on existing technological infrastructure is crucial for businesses. A real-world example includes Netflix, which successfully used Intel's AI accelerators to enhance its streaming performance by over 350%. These Intel tools provide a 30% performance advantage over competitors, making them essential for any organization seeking to improve operational efficiency. This innovation illustrates how aligning AI with trusted architecture can yield significant success.
Record-Breaking Attendance at the US Open
The 2024 US Open is witnessing unprecedented attendance, with opening day attracting over 74,000 fans, marking the largest single-day crowd in its history. This surge in participation is attributed to the ongoing popularity of tennis, in part driven by the public's fondness for its prominent players and events. The USTA reports that ticket demand has increased significantly, encouraging fans to return year after year. As excitement builds, the spirit of the event continues to captivate a diverse audience.
Engaging Younger Fans Through Innovative Initiatives
Efforts to create a vibrant, younger fan base at the US Open are paying off, evidenced by the record turnout during Fan Week. This initiative features accessible events, free giveaways, and unique activities designed specifically to attract families and younger audiences. The USTA's strategy of offering interactive experiences is showing results, with a notable percentage of Fan Week visitors converting to main draw ticket purchases. This targeted engagement is crucial for keeping the sport relevant and appealing to new generations.
Brand Partnerships and ROI in Sponsorships
Long-standing partnerships at the US Open highlight the value of strategic branding in enhancing customer experiences. American Express, for example, emphasizes the importance of access and engagement through its expansive fan experience space during the tournament. The company tracks metrics like ticket sales and consumer engagement to measure the success of their sponsorship. This relationship demonstrates the need for brands to understand their audiences and adapt to emerging trends to effectively optimize their marketing strategies.
Watch Carol and Tim LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF. USTA Chief Commercial Officer Kirsten Corio discusses US Open ticket sales and attendance. Shiz Suzuki, VP of Global Brand Sponsorships & Experiential Marketing at American Express, shares experiences available to card members at the US Open. Chris Studley, Managing Director of Event Services at the USTA, talks about the food and beverage offerings at the US Open. And we Drive to the Close with John Mousseau, Chief Executive Officer & Director of Fixed Income at Cumberland Advisors. Hosts: Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Producer: Paul Brennan.
