Infosys, French Tennis Federation unveil tennis innovations at Roland Garros

Infosys and the French Tennis Federation (FFT) have unveiled an array of groundbreaking tennis innovations, powered by cloud technology, artificial intelligence (AI), mixed reality, and data analytics at the ongoing Roland Garros 2023.

These cutting-edge advancements aim to transform the game while providing a novel and immersive experience for fans.

Amélie Mauresmo — Roland-Garros Tournament Director said: “Infosys has amplified the reach of the tournament over the past five years, while adding real value to everyone in the game.

“As Digital Innovation Partner, their focus on taking the game into new dimensions while preserving the culture heritage of Roland-Garros with digital platforms has helped us engage deeper with those on and beyond the court in a meaningful way. We will continue to find avenues to make the tournament more iconic and innovative with technology.”

The partnership between Infosys and the French Tennis Federation focuses on enhancing fan engagement by utilizing mixed reality (XR) and AI-enabled motion analysis. At Roland Garros, tennis enthusiasts can now practice and measure their serving skills at the all-new Infosys x Wilson Smash Corner.

Equipped with high-tech cameras, Infosys technologies record and superimpose individuals’ serves on the prestigious Court Philippe-Chatrier, offering fans a realistic experience akin to the main court. Tailored serve analysis and feedback on posture and performance enable fans to access pro-level analysis, improving their technique and taking their game to the next level.

In addition, Infosys continues to drive enhancements to the Match Center features and powers the RG Fantasy Game. Fans can now enjoy the Infosys Tennis Virtual Reality Experience, immersing themselves in virtual matches against top players, making every fan an active participant in the game.

The media enablement aspect receives a significant boost with a new Excitement Rating tool integrated into Infosys’ AI-Assisted Journalism. This tool empowers journalists to report accurately on the tournament by analyzing various factors such as match length and crowd noise, rating the excitement and tension levels surrounding the game. By providing valuable insights, fans worldwide can feel closer to the action and experience the electric atmosphere of the stadium.

Player performance sees an AI-powered advantage with Infosys’ advanced match strategy tool. This tool, deployed at RG in 2019, incorporates player tendencies, analyzing the efficacy of their first and second serves as well as their returns. By correlating reactive tendencies with win rates, players can improve their performance on the court.

The newly launched “Get in the zone” feature curates custom video playlists, showcasing winning trends against specific opponents, and positively influencing players’ mindsets pre-match.

Community engagement remains a priority as Infosys and the French Tennis Federation aim to inspire the next generation. Following the success of the STEM program powered by Infosys’ Springboard last year, a unique two-day program is now offered to children passionate about science, technology, and tennis. This program encourages students to explore the interplay between sport and STEM, inspiring them to pursue their interests in both fields.

Tournament heritage takes center stage with the unveiling of the Yannick Noah Room at the Infosys Roland-Garros 3D Art Museum. This digital space celebrates the tournament’s 130-year legacy and marks the 40-year anniversary of Yannick Noah’s historic Grand Slam win in 1983. The Yannick Noah Room showcases immersive 3D exhibits, a captivating video wall, and an augmented reality experience, allowing visitors to relive Noah’s winning point in a truly remarkable way, merging culture, sport, and technology.

Infosys and the French Tennis Federation’s partnership combines the power of technology and tennis, delivering innovative fan experiences, advanced media reporting tools, performance-enhancing features for players, community engagement programs, and a celebration of the sport’s rich heritage. Together, they are reshaping the future of tennis, creating a more immersive, engaging, and empowering experience for fans and players alike at Roland Garros and beyond.

Sumit Virmani — Infosys EVP and Chief Marketing Officer said: “Now in its fifth year, this partnership continues to help transform and propel the sport forwards, for the better. Several new innovations this year have been powered by Infosys Topaz and bring an AI-first approach to reimagine the RG tournament in fresh new ways for fans, media and crucially players, leaning on the sport’s heritage while powering and inspiring future generations.

“We are truly excited with the potential of technology powered transformative progress that continues to make Roland Garros amongst the most exciting grand slams for the billion fans of the sport around the world.”