IBM Consulting, in collaboration with Watsonx, has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the US Open Tennis Championships through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies. IBM Consulting’s experience design arm, IBM iX, works closely with the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to automate business processes, develop new features, and deliver exceptional digital experiences to fans.

This year, IBM introduced Watsonx, its advanced AI and data platform for the enterprise, which combines machine learning and generative AI capabilities. Watsonx enables non-technical users to uncover new insights that inform the development of innovative features. The platform has facilitated significant advancements at the US Open, such as the creation of real-time audio and text commentary using Watsonx’s generative AI capabilities. The USTA leverages match statistics, rankings, and predictions, combined with natural language processing tools, to generate accurate and compelling commentary for every singles match throughout the tournament.

Additionally, AI Draw Analysis, a feature derived from structured and unstructured data using Watsonx, ranks each player’s draw on a favorability scale, providing fans with measures of advantage or disadvantage and allowing them to explore potential matchups as players progress in the tournament.

Leveraging Collaborative Design Thinking to Drive Innovation

IBM Consulting’s partnership with the US Open’s digital strategy team also emphasizes the significance of collaborative design thinking. IBM iX applies the IBM Garage methodology, an end-to-end model that accelerates digital transformation, to address challenges within various management frameworks. This approach enables the US Open to prioritize development, iterate solutions, and continually improve their digital experiences. Through this method, IBM has successfully delivered artist insights for live coverage at the GRAMMYs and built a digital platform for the Masters® golf tournament.

Supporting Organizations’ AI-Driven Transformation

Watsonx provides enterprises with unprecedented accessibility to traditional and generative AI capabilities. IBM Consulting offers its expertise in generative AI technology stacks, access to a range of foundation models, and domain experience to help clients accelerate adoption and achieve AI-driven digital transformation. In the near future, Watsonx.governance, a robust governance component, will be released to further enhance the platform’s capabilities.

IBM’s collaboration with the US Open demonstrates a commitment to continuously overcome new challenges and engage fans with innovative experiences. Through the partnership, the USTA remains at the forefront of technological advancements and fan expectations.

FAQs

What is Watsonx?

Watsonx is a powerful AI and data platform developed by IBM that combines machine learning and generative AI capabilities. It empowers non-technical users to discover new insights and inform the development of innovative features.

How does Watsonx enhance the US Open?

Watsonx has enabled the US Open to introduce real-time audio and text commentary for every singles match in the tournament. It also provides AI Draw Analysis, which ranks each player’s draw and gives fans measures of advantage or disadvantage, allowing them to explore potential matchups.

How does IBM Consulting support organizations in their AI-driven transformation?

IBM Consulting offers expertise in generative AI technology stacks, access to a wide range of foundation models, and industry-specific experience to help organizations effectively adopt and implement AI-driven digital transformation strategies.

What is collaborative design thinking?

Collaborative design thinking is an approach that involves partnership and close collaboration between IBM Consulting and organizations like the US Open’s digital strategy team. It utilizes the IBM Garage methodology, which encompasses lean startups, human-centered design, agile, and DevOps, to address challenges and drive innovation.