AO, also known as the Australian Open , is using innovative technology to broadcast the 2025 matches online in a new format. Using animated avatars that look like Wii game characters, a new method of watching tennis is created by using artificial intelligence. This technique expands the reach and accessibility for many potential viewers.
AO Animated: Reimagining Tennis Broadcast
The AO has introduced “AO Animated” on YouTube which recreates real matches using cartoon avatars of the players . The tracking data from Hawk-Eye along with digital art produces unique characters that mimic real time play. The system provides new visuals and different takes that are both captivating and memorable. This created a way for many viewers to enjoy tennis without many of the normal hindrances which can take them away from the experience.
Faithful Depiction with a Twist
While having a cartoon format, this AI uses data to map player’s movements. Their style, clothing, and even mannerisms are all put in place to provide an experience that both is recognizable and also enjoyable. Viewers are able to follow along with commentary that provides an almost identical experience to watching the game live. In addition, the avatars are prone to glitches and having a mind of their own which gives extra enjoyment that would not usually be in a regular broadcast.
AO's Unique Approach to Broadcasting
In 2023 this concept began and was not yet fully developed with only the ball being tracked. The year following, one court had this style and in 2025 three courts are now showcasing this new style with viral moments taking off among viewers online and is also loved by the players themselves .
Circumventing Broadcast Rights
AO has worked to still make a version of the matches accessible, due to their media right restrictions. This format was a way to give fans the ability to view a live event two minutes behind using their own creative methods instead of relying on a third party. Also it became free to access, widening viewing availability for many who have not yet been part of their audience. In this setting a loophole was established allowing for distribution through the popular platform, YouTube.
How AO Animated Functions
The use of sensors to capture motion of players has created data points, the “Skeletal data," with 29 points on the skeleton tracked over 50 times a second. A mesh then forms as a digital framework where art designs and skins of the players then get used. This provides both depth to the technology but a fun view point for those that choose to view the experience.
Visual Creation and Unique Features
Mark Riedy a designer created these digital characters that embrace quirks. He added a cartoon like image with the players who have big heads which create humor. The glitches are celebrated and incorporated with their commentary in the video feed making every aspect a key selling point for those that are viewing this form of entertainment. The way the characters react and move are just one piece of why people tune in.
Community Engagement Through New Tech
The viewers have embraced chat rooms online as a community has formed with people interacting over what has been seen as both real action but also an exciting form of gaming . This gives people access without the need of having a ticket or special broadcasting packages which normally is required.
New Avenues for Engagement
Viewers are introduced to athletes through the animated versions first before learning their full name, story and potential for the game. This technique provides new interest while breaking down barriers for those who want access from the comfort of their homes. That interest also has helped increase viewership across the platforms used by the Tennis Association.
Adapting to Media Trends
AO Animated embraces tech while adapting to new ways that media is distributed. Creating new opportunities and options the Tennis organization has shown a willingness to shift towards where current viewers have begun to get their main source of entertainment. With many other organizations using streaming and AI elements the association makes a forward thinking change to be with the trends as they appear.
Looking Towards the Future
While exploring ways to use emotions that are conveyed by players they hope to provide different ways that viewers can have all new forms of reactions through tech innovation. With changes happening so fast the plan is to stay relevant while making the view point still focused on athleticism in these events but from all new ways of viewing.
Key Takeaways
- AO Animated uses data and tracking to create new animated depictions of the Australian Open in real time
- This unique approach by the Australian Open showcases that it is adapting to an ever evolving world of digital broadcasting.
- These new broadcasts have generated interest and increase in viewers through its unique and creative approach.
- It highlights how technology can create different communities and widen viewers experience as a result of the new processes and creative decisions.
- The focus was to create a more relaxed format that offers both humour and also provides opportunities for casual viewing experiences.