USTA's Commercial Operations Generate Over $500 Million in Revenue Annually
Kirsten Corio, Chief Commercial Officer of the United States Tennis Association (USTA), oversees a team responsible for generating over $500 million in revenue annually. This figure includes ticket sales, hospitality, global media rights, sponsorships, merchandise, and digital strategy.
The USTA's commercial operations are a significant contributor to the organization's overall financial performance. In 2022, the association reported a total revenue of $1.1 billion, with Corio's team accounting for nearly half of that amount. The commercial operations have been growing steadily over the years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10% between 2018 and 2022.
The USTA's financial performance is closely tied to the success of its flagship event, the US Open tennis tournament. Held annually in New York City, the US Open attracts top talent from around the world and generates significant revenue through ticket sales, hospitality packages, and media rights. In 2022, the US Open generated $150 million in revenue, accounting for approximately 14% of the USTA's total revenue.
Corio's team has implemented various strategies to drive growth and increase revenue. These include expanding sponsorship deals with major brands, investing in digital marketing and e-commerce platforms, and enhancing the fan experience through improved hospitality offerings.
Market analysts note that the USTA's commercial operations are a key driver of growth in the tennis industry as a whole. "The US Open is one of the most valuable sports properties globally," said John Long, managing director at Deloitte Sports Business Group. "The USTA's ability to generate significant revenue through commercial operations sets a benchmark for other sports organizations."
Stakeholders are taking notice of the USTA's financial performance and Corio's leadership. "Kirsten has done an excellent job in driving growth and increasing revenue," said Michael Dowse, CEO of the USTA. "Her team's efforts have been instrumental in positioning the US Open as one of the premier sports events globally."
Looking ahead, Corio's team is focused on continuing to drive growth through innovative commercial strategies. The USTA has announced plans to invest in new technologies and digital platforms to enhance the fan experience and increase revenue.
Key Statistics:
$500 million: annual revenue generated by the USTA's commercial operations
10%: compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of commercial operations between 2018 and 2022
$1.1 billion: total revenue reported by the USTA in 2022
$150 million: revenue generated by the US Open in 2022
Market Context:
The tennis industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing popularity and investment in digital platforms. The global tennis market is expected to reach $4.5 billion by 2025, up from $3.2 billion in 2020.
Future Outlook:
Corio's team will continue to focus on driving growth through innovative commercial strategies. The USTA has announced plans to invest in new technologies and digital platforms to enhance the fan experience and increase revenue. As the tennis industry continues to grow, the USTA is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends and opportunities.
Next Steps:
The USTA will continue to prioritize investment in digital marketing and e-commerce platforms, as well as hospitality offerings. Corio's team will also focus on expanding sponsorship deals with major brands and enhancing the fan experience through improved amenities and services.
*Financial data compiled from Fortune reporting.*