Aug 23, 2010 at 04:04 PM
written by

American Express Adds NextContenders.com to US Open Activation

American Express announced its activation plans for the U.S. Open this year, its 17th year as a partner of the tennis tournament. American Express will continue many of its successful activation ideas from years past including the American Express Radio, the official iPhone application of the U.S. Open and American Express' on-site concierge desk. New this year, the company has launched NextContenders.com, where tennis fans can go behind the scenes with fast-rising tennis stars John Isner, Sam Querrey, Caroline Wozniacki and Melanie Oudin.


"We know our Cardmembers are passionate about tennis, and we are committed to bringing them closer to the sport they love with unique experiences and a fresh perspective on the game," said Jessica Igoe, Director of Global Sponsorship Marketing, American Express. "This year, we are inviting tennis fans across the country to experience the game through the eyes of rising tennis stars John Isner, Sam Querrey, Caroline Wozniacki and Melanie Oudin with NextContenders.com and on a local level with "Fresh Courts," a new program in partnership with the USTA that provides funding to refurbish tennis facilities in underserved communities."

Here's a rundown of American Express' activations for the 2010 U.S. Open:

  • American Express' NextContenders.com: Tennis enthusiasts can follow rising tennis stars John Isner, Sam Querrey, Caroline Wozniacki and Melanie Oudin as they train for the US Open with exclusive behind-the-scenes footage giving a glimpse into their personal lives; learn about the signature shot that has defined their game; hear interviews from the players and their coaches and family; and get insider commentary and player insights over the course of the tournament.

  • American Express(R) Radio Live at the US Open: Complimentary for Cardmembers, the Radios allow fans to listen to play-by-play commentary and match updates on CBS, ESPN2 and the Tennis Channel while they watch the action live from the courts. Fans can also hear special live interviews and player spotlights on John Isner, Sam Querrey, Caroline Wozniacki and Melanie Oudin, who share their personal stories of triumph, disappointment and inspiration on and off the court.

  • Official iPhone Application of the US Open: American Express has partnered with the USTA and IBM for the second year to offer all tennis fans the official US Open iPhone application to access an insider's guide with live scores, game highlights and USOpen.org's live radio commentary. Special American Express features include an interactive grounds map highlighting American Express Cardmember benefits, video content with pro players John Isner, Sam Querrey, Caroline Wozniacki and Melanie Oudin, and "Ask the Booth," that also allows users to submit questions that will be answered by tennis insiders throughout the tournament on USOpen.org Radio.

  • USOpen.org Radio, Presented by American Express: Through this internet radio broadcast, tennis fans can enjoy the energy of the tournament even while away from the courts. The highlights show features hourly updates on players and captures insights and commentary.

  • US Open Guest Information hosted by American Express: Comprehensive tournament information, along with on-site restaurant and transportation assistance offered by American Express, will help attendees make the most of their experience at the tournament and stay in the know about all of the exciting activities surrounding them.

  • American Express Concierge Booth: Exclusive for Cardmembers, concierge representatives can help with all your tournament needs from making reservations to downloading the Official US Open iPhone application for you. Merchandise bag check will also be available so Cardmembers can enjoy the Open with ease.

  • Madison Square Park US Open Viewing hosted by ZYNC from American Express(SM): Bringing back a favorite from years past, ZYNC from American Express will be transforming Madison Square Park into its largest ZYNC Zone yet, providing attendees the ultimate tennis experience with giant viewing screens, local NYC-area concessions, an interactive photo booth and ping pong tournaments sponsored by SPiN New York, the table-tennis social club.


    Along with these on-site experiences, American Express also recently announced a new partnership with the USTA called "Fresh Courts," which will help renovate existing, disrepaired tennis facilities in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and New York.