THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF TENNIS: A HOLISTIC ANALYSIS FROM ATHLETE TRAINING TO THE FAN EXPERIENCE

Authors

  • Maria Christodimitropoulou Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
  • John Douvis Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
  • Panagiotis Alexopoulos Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece
  • Panagiota Antonopoulou Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejpe.v13i3.6668

Keywords:

digital transformation, tennis, Artificial Intelligence, performance analysis, sports technology

Abstract

This research examines the multifaceted digital transformation of tennis, analyzing the impact of new technologies on four key pillars: athlete training and performance, officiating and "smart" courts, fan experience and engagement, and emerging business models and governance. The integration of Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things through wearable sensors and "smart" equipment, and blockchain technology is radically reshaping how the sport is trained, played, watched, and managed. Technologies such as motion analysis systems, "smart" racquets, electronic officiating systems, personalized content platforms for fans, and Non-Fungible Tokens are analyzed. The research demonstrates that while these technologies offer unprecedented opportunities for performance optimization, objectivity in officiating, and deeper fan connection, they also present challenges related to adoption, regulation, commercial viability, and the need for unified governance. The research concludes that successfully navigating this new landscape requires a strategic approach that balances innovation with tradition, ensuring that technology acts as an enhancing factor for the sport rather than an end in itself.

Author Biographies

  • Maria Christodimitropoulou, Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece

    Maria Christodimitropoulou is a PhD candidate at the Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece.

  • John Douvis, Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece

    Dr. John Douvis is a Professor at the Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece.

  • Panagiotis Alexopoulos, Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece

    Dr. Panagiotis Alexopoulos is a Professor at the Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece.

  • Panagiota Antonopoulou, Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece

    Dr. Panagiota Antonopoulou is a Professor at the Department of Sports Organization and Management, University of Peloponnese, Sparta, Greece.

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Published

2026-04-17

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 3 (2026)

Section

Articles

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