DirecTV Expands Interactivity and HD Coverage of Grand Slam Tennis

01.23.2009

DirecTV has expanded its interactive sports programming this year of all four Grand Slam tennis tournaments.

The Mix Channel from DirecTV

The first event, the Australian Open, kicked off Jan. 18.

Integrating its interactive services with ESPN2 and Tennis Channel broadcasts, DirecTV is featuring its six-screens-in-one Mix Channel. And for the first time, the interactive application, the Mix Channel and the five court channels will be in HD.

The Mix Channel will offer, on a single screen, the network channel and five court channels with live coverage tuneable to full screen via remote. Each channel will feature natural sound and commentary from tennis experts and former touring pros.

An interactive application menu will also be available on each event channel.

“We are aggressively ramping up our interactive coverage of major tennis and golf events in 2009,” said Eric Shanks, executive vice president, DirecTV Entertainment. “Tennis and golf fans are unique because they actively participate in their sport and that drives their passion for major tournaments like the Australian Open. Our interactive, expanded coverage is designed for them and makes DirecTV a must-have if you’re a fan and an active tennis player or golfer.”

DirecTV will also offer interactive services for ESPN and Tennis Channel’s coverage of the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open tournaments this year.