WTA announces partnership with FanDuel, its first authorized gaming operator

The WTA has signed off on a new deal with America’s number one sportsbook and daily fantasy sports provider Fanduel, designating FanDuel as an authorized gaming operator in North, South, and Central America.

“The WTA is pleased to welcome FanDuel as its first Authorized Gaming Operator,” stated WTA President, Micky Lawler. “FanDuel is a premier destination for sports fans online and this relationship provides the building blocks for growing our fan base.”

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Tennis Majors

According to a statement by the WTA Tour: “The new relationship brings America’s number one sportsbook and industry-leading daily fantasy sports products directly to WTA fans and marks the first time a women’s sport will have video highlights throughout FanDuel’s digital platforms and sportsbooks.”

FanDuel platforms will offer betting and fantasy products to fans in affiliated regions, as well as WTA highlights to its user.

“Our platforms are now a destination for WTA content and highlights, which significantly enriches the sports betting experience, while continuing to expand our media and content capabilities,” said Amy Howe, President and Interim CEO, FanDuel Group.

Trend continues

The WTA’s decision to capitalise on revenue opportunities from gambling continues a trend that has been in place since the beginning of the pandemic.

The ATP Tour’s board of directors lifted its moratorium on tournament sports betting/daily fantasy sponsorships last December, giving tournaments a chance to link directly with betting sites for sponsorship opportunities.

The sports betting and daily fantasy categories are open to ATP Tour tournaments at the 250 and 500 levels. For the time being, Masters 1000 events, like the BNP Paribas Open and Miami Open, can only pursue daily fantasy partnerships.

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According to Bret McCormick of the Sports Business Journal, there are some restrictions on the types of sponsorships available to parties and the ATP. Tournaments cannot pursue title sponsorships or presenting partnerships with companies in the sports betting/daily fantasy category. Tournaments are prohibited from placing on-court signage too close to the chair umpire or players’ benches. Other than that, the category is open.

Lawler: Fans get a more personal experience

It has long been believed that gambling will happen whether the tennis tours get involved or not, so why not join forces and reap the rewards of what can be lucrative partnerships? Lawler believes that the products on offer to consumers will serve to enhance the fan experience for many.

“This milestone not only delivers on the growing appetite fans have for a more personalized sporting experience, but also paves the way for us to have a proactive role in managing the responsible gambling standards and practices we wish to foster. Our top priority is providing our fans with more opportunities to engage with the sport in a fun and safe way,” she said.