The GIST

SponsorPulse shares data insights on Wimbledon fandom in U.S. as sponsorship opportunities loom

With Wimbledon coming up, SponsorPulse followed up 2024 data insights on Wimbledon fandom in the U.S., illustrating the fan profile and opportunity for brands to engage as the British Grand Slam faces growth challenges.

June 30, 2025

WTA announces rankings protections for players that undergo fertility treatments

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On Wednesday, the WTA announced it will protect the rankings of players who take time away to pursue fertility treatments like egg or embryo freezing. It’s the latest move from a pro sports organization to formally accommodate athletes’ family planning, demonstrating new ways to compassionately address the unique challenges women athletes face.

June 13, 2025

Rolex’s tennis sponsorship offers blueprint for brands looking to gain ground in women’s sports

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On Sunday, Front Office Sports detailed how luxury watchmaker Rolex has been putting on a decades-long clinic on how to win over tennis fans and become synonymous with the sport. Rolex offers key insights into how brands new to sports (and new brands, period) can capitalize as early adopters in women’s sports.

May 28, 2025

PIF doubles down on WTA investment by sponsoring maternity benefits

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Yesterday, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) built on its expansive partnership with the WTA by launching the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program, the first in women’s sports history to offer paid maternity benefits to self-employed athletes.

March 07, 2025

NY investment firm Blue Owl expands winning US Open strategy to all four Grand Slams

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Yesterday, NYC–based investment firm Blue Owl Capital built on its unique US Open advertising strategy with a marquee tennis sponsorship spanning all four Grand Slams. The company will focus on partnering with lower-ranked challengers to optimize its bets for outsized ROI, while also leveling the endorsement playing field court.

January 13, 2025

WTA Ventures reports 24% revenue growth since 2023 launch

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Last March, the WTA established WTA Ventures, a unique strategic partnership with CVC Capital Partners to create a commercial branch of the women’s tennis tour dedicated to boosting revenue and ROI for the tour. And now the results are in: WTA Ventures increased its revenue by 24% in its first year, setting a new record for the tour.

December 04, 2024

WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia under scrutiny as long-term viability is considered

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The WTA Finals are well underway in Riyadh as Saudi Arabia serves as a first-time host. The tournament competition is heating up, but so is the controversy around holding it in the country, leaving questions about whether the move was truly worth it for the WTA and its partners.

November 06, 2024

Sports Business

ESPN doubles down on US Open media rights with expanded coverage through 2037

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August 30, 2024

The 2024 US Open has already seen record attendance this year, and ESPN is leaning in. On Wednesday, the sports channel announced a new 12-year media rights extension with the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to remain the Grand Slam’s exclusive broadcaster through 2037.

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The GIST of It Podcast

Ep #471

An extra-caffeinated convo with Breanna Stewart

June 26, 2025

Listen on Apple Music Listen on Spotify

An extra-caffeinated convo with Breanna Stewart

She’s baaack.

Friend of The GIST Breanna Stewart is back on the pod and busier than ever. On this episode of The GIST of It, Stewie sits down with The GIST’s Managing Editor Lauren Tuiskula for an extra-fun, super caffeinated conversation about the NY Liberty's recent injury struggles, finding inner zen on the road, and what the six-time All-Star is most looking forward to at the upcoming All-Star Weekend.

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