AusLeisure

MasterCard has returned as a sponsor of the Australian Open after being named as the official payment partner for tennis’ first Grand Slam of the year.

The financial payments company, which had partnered the Australian Open between 2007 to 2009, has also linked with other Tennis Australia events, becoming the naming rights partner of the Hopman Cup and an official partner of the Emirates Australian Open Series tournaments in Sydney, Hobart and Adelaide.

Mastercard will be involved in a variety of Australian Open lead-up events, including launch activities in Tokyo, Shanghai and Singapore.

Mastercard’s second major sponsorship of a Grand Slam tournament (it already sponsors the French Open) has been described by Tennis Australia as “a first of its kind”.

Introducing the partnership, Tennis Australia Commercial Director Richard Heaselgrave stated “we are delighted to join forces with Mastercard and welcome them to our partner family, as the official payment partner for the Australian Open and some of our AO Series tournaments, as well as the naming rights partner for the Mastercard Hopman Cup.

“As a prestigious international brand with a focus on innovation, Mastercard aligns perfectly with our values and particularly our efforts in global promotion and tourism.

“Establishing close relationships with some of the world’s best brands, such as Mastercard, is a vital part of our growth strategy, and one that will benefit all our fans, both in Australia and around the world.”

Mastercard Senior Vice President Marketing Asia Pacific Sam Ahmed added “we know that impactful partnerships, like ours with Tennis Australia, drive transactions by emphasising to millions of fans worldwide the benefits of being a Mastercard cardholder.

“This new partnership provides Mastercard with another key platform to connect and engage deeply with cardholders, particularly the growing audience of fans coming into Melbourne from across Asia.

“From purchasing tickets online and booking travel, to paying for your transport to the tennis and purchasing food, drinks and merchandise, this platform will allow us to demonstrate to cardholders how fast, easy and safe it is to rely on your Mastercard to make it all happen.”

Australian Open 2016 attracted a record crowd of 720,363 people. With 13% of attendees visiting from overseas, the tournament is a significant tourism driver for Australia.

The Australian Open 2017, presented by Kia Motors in association with ANZ, Jacob’s Creek and Rolex, will take place at Melbourne Park from 16th to 29th January.

Lower image shows Australian Open action at the Rod Laver Arena.

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