Rafael Nadal and IT giant Infosys have a three-year agreement that was revealed on Thursday. He is regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, but he has also shown the capacity to adapt to the demands of tennis as they have changed through time.
“Nadal is a perfect embodiment of what it takes individuals or business leaders to evolve and continually navigate their next,” the company said in a statement.
Rafael Nadal, said, “I’m very happy to work closely with Infosys, as they work to not only evolve the experience of tennis to the times but also empower people in our communities to be part of a brighter future. I love the way Infosys has brought its digital expertise across industries to the global tennis ecosystem. It has transformed the tennis experience for a billion global fans and truly empowered all players on the tour with analytics that they could have only dreamt of a few years ago. Also, the impact that Infosys is making beyond the court – creating the next opportunity for people, businesses, and communities – deeply inspires me. I believe it’s our shared aspiration to create societal good that makes our handshake truly meaningful.”
Infosys and Nadal’s coaching staff are creating an AI-powered match analysis tool to commemorate, Nadal’s first-ever partnership with a digital services business. When Nadal returns to the circuit, his coaching staff will have access to this customized application in real-time to track insights from his live matches as well as historical data from his prior encounters.
Salil Parekh, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Infosys, said, “It is an honor to welcome Rafa – one of the world’s most respected champion athletes and humanitarians – as an ambassador for Infosys. He is someone who personifies the spirit of always evolving, never giving up, utmost dedication, and determination to give the very best in every situation. We are inspired by his approach, and it reflects our own aspirations to continuously evolve and always remain relevant for our clients.”
By using AI, cloud, data analytics, and digital experiences, brand Infosys has assisted in reimagining the tennis ecosystem for a billion fans worldwide, including the ATP Tour, Roland-Garros, Australian Open, and The International Tennis Hall of Fame. Infosys has developed cutting-edge video and data analysis systems for athletes and coaches to transform training, backed match analysis with AI-assisted journalism platforms for broadcasters to generate interesting material, and created new opportunities for spectators to interact with the game.
Other developments by Infosys for the tennis ecosystem include investigations into the digital realm using mixed reality, social VR, and 3D art museums to reach fans all over the world with the history and tradition of tennis. The Carbon Tracker, newly introduced by Infosys, enables ATP players to monitor and reduce emissions caused by their travel while on tour. It is an innovative use of sustainable technology in any sport.
Together with Tennis Australia, Infosys has expanded its partnerships with tennis to benefit communities all over the world. One such example is STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education, which has been made engaging through the use of tennis.
