IBM and Wimbledon Extend Landmark Partnership to Revolutionize Fan Experiences with AI
The push for further digital innovation is supported by global data; a recent survey found that 86% of tennis fans worldwide value AI-powered features like real-time insights and personalized highlights.
RMN Digital Corporate Desk
New Delhi | January 7, 2026
LONDON – IBM and The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) have officially announced a multi-year renewal of their historic 36-year technology partnership. Under the new agreement, IBM will continue as the Official AI, Cloud and Digital Transformation Partner for The Championships, Wimbledon, focusing on expanding the tournament’s global reach through 2026 and beyond.
The collaboration has already proven highly successful, with the AELTC being named ‘Sports Organisation of the Year’ at the 2025 Sports Technology Awards. In 2025 alone, Wimbledon’s digital platforms saw a 16% year-on-year increase in engagement, with more than 20 million fans utilizing the website and mobile app to follow the action. These platforms feature advanced tools powered by IBM watsonx, such as “Match Chat” and “Live Likelihood to Win,” which transform raw match data into interactive insights.
“AI-powered capabilities will be key to ensuring our future digital experiences are relevant and engaging,” said Usama Al-Qassab, Marketing & Commercial Director at the AELTC.
Jonathan Adashek, Senior Vice President at IBM, added, “We are thrilled to continue working in lockstep to serve up a world-class digital experience.”
The push for further digital innovation is supported by global data; a recent survey found that 86% of tennis fans worldwide value AI-powered features like real-time insights and personalized highlights. By continuing this partnership, both organizations remain committed to making the oldest Grand Slam tournament more accessible and immersive for a new generation of fans.
This partnership acts much like a world-class coach for an elite athlete, providing the data-driven insights and technical support necessary to keep a traditional icon performing at the peak of modern innovation.
