Spark Sport secures US Open deal

Streaming platform Spark Sport has secured a three-year deal that will see it acquire the exclusive live television and digital rights for the US Open Tennis Championship in New Zealand starting from 2022 up till 2024.

The deal will see the tournament being broadcast live and on-demand on Spark Sport. Additionally, the US Open’s qualifying tournament, junior championship and wheelchair events will also be broadcast as part of the agreement.

Lew Sherr, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the United States Tennis Association (USTA), commented:

“It’s the perfect time to partner with Spark Sport in New Zealand, as they continue to grow and prioritise their tennis coverage within an ever-expanding live sports portfolio. 

“We’re excited for the next three years and are looking forward to Spark Sport delivering a high level of US Open coverage to the great fans in New Zealand.”

Jeff Latch, Head of Spark Sport, added:

“Our goal is to bring Kiwis more of the sport they love, and we know we have a lot of tennis-mad fans in Aotearoa. 

“Our subscribers will now have access to the US Open, a tournament that has evolved into one of the most popular sports and entertainment spectacles around the globe, as well as WTA tournaments already available on the platform.”

Through the three-year deal, Spark hopes to strengthen its position with regards to tennis, having recently renewed its partnership with the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) as well for broadcast rights in New Zealand.