The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has named FanDuel its authorized gaming partner in North, South and Central America, marking the debut of women’s tennis on the operator’s channels.
FanDuel will gain access to WTA trade marks as a result of the deal, whilst also leveraging the international governing body’s partnership with Stats Perform – the sports technology firm is the WTA’s official data supplier – to utilise official scoring data.
The integration will enable tennis fans in the Americas to gain fantasy sports fan engagement opportunities, whilst the partners also aim to ‘further professionalise’ the tennis legalised gaming category.
“The WTA is pleased to welcome FanDuel as its first Authorized Gaming Operator,” said Micky Lawler, WTA President. “FanDuel is a premier destination for sports fans online and this relationship provides the building blocks for growing our fan base.
“This milestone not only delivers on the growing appetite fans have for a more personalized sporting experience, but also paves the way for us to have a proactive role in managing the responsible gambling standards and practices we wish to foster. Our top priority is providing our fans with more opportunities to engage with the sport in a fun and safe way.”
Brokered by the WTA’s sponsorship sales agency, CSM, the organisation intends to enhance the exposure of women’s tennis, by showcasing ‘the next evolution of data-driven touchpoints and trusted betting products for WTA fans’.
The partnership will also include a safe and responsible betting caveat, with the WTA joining the National Council on Problem Gambling to promote responsible gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment and recovery resources, with the organisation in particular working to advocate the Safer Sports Betting Initiative.
Amy Howe, President and Interim CEO, FanDuel Group: “We are incredibly proud of our commitment to supporting women in sports and are continuously looking for new ways to further raise awareness of female athletes, teams, and all women in sports.
“Aligning with the WTA — the global leader in women’s professional sports – is consistent with our overall mission to elevate the profile for talented women in sports. We are delighted to partner with such a prestigious organisation.”
The deal represents the latest expansion of FanDuel’s presence in professional sports, currently including the Washington Football Team, Indianapolis Colts, DC United and the PGA Tour in its portfolio of partners.
