Wimbledon fans can get ready to enjoy a 3D final with their strawberries and cream.
Sony and the All England Lawn Tennis Club on Monday announced a multiyear partnership to bring Wimbledon to 3D-ready digital cinemas around the world. The live 3D production, in partnership with Wimbledon host broadcaster BBC, also will be offered to broadcasters.
On the theatrical side, Sony will work with SuperVision Media, its theatrical distribution partner. The tennis will be shot in high-definition 3D and be offered to rightsholders and interested global broadcasters.
As the BBC is the host broadcaster and coverage will be required on terrestrial television, it seems likely that — as was the case with the 2010 World Cup 3D coverage — the Wimbledon 3D broadcast will not be available on the U.K.’s only 3D channel, Sky3D.
Coverage will include the men’s singles semifinals and finals and the women’s singles finals.
“We are delighted that our 3D partnership with Sony will not only guarantee we are at the cutting edge of live sporting television, but also deliver a compelling new viewing experience for our global audiences, especially among our younger supporters,” said Ian Ritchie, chief executive of the All England Lawn Tennis Club.
Sony partnered with FIFA last year to produce 3D coverage of the FIFA World Cup, which was also available through 3D digital cinema as well as broadcast agreements.
Wimbledon this year runs June 20-July 3.
