Throughout the pandemic, American Express has found ways to engage with Card Members by bringing cultural experiences virtually to life. The company hosted a live stream featuring the Broadway cast of Jagged Little Pill and Alanis Morissette and streamed archived productions from Joe's Pub in NYC. Now, they're helping members get close to the action at the US Open since the stands will be empty this year.
Though the world's biggest tennis stars like Serena Williams will be hitting the courts at Arthur Ashe Stadium this year, the stands will be notably absent. But fans can still get involved by cheering on their favorite players via the US Open app by clicking "Join the Crowd." From there, you can record a video of yourself cheering. Favorite cheers will be selected to feature on the big screens in Arthur Ashe Stadium, allowing the players to see you cheering.
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Until September 10, Card Members are also being given the unique opportunity to play journalist, where they can ask their favorite stars any questions via the “Ask a Player” section. They just need to upload a video of themselves asking the question and select questions will be chosen to be answered by each player. While ESPN is doing a live post-match interview, they will show the video live in Arthur Ashe Stadium, and the player will be able to respond in real-time.
On September 12 and 13 there will be a Virtual Center Court Club in which Card Members get special access to view each finals match from a virtual suite. Celebrities like Anthony Anderson and Jonathan Van Ness will pop in throughout the match to interact with the lucky viewers.
“I’m excited to partner with American Express for their US Open experience, the Virtual Center Court Club,” says Van Ness. “Embracing the new normal and providing Card Members with a way to watch the US Open from home and still connect with other fans virtually captures the spirit of the US Open.”
Anderson added, “I’m a big tennis fan, and there’s nothing like the excitement and energy from fans during the US Open, which is why I’m thrilled to partner with American Express to bring that energy to a virtual platform through their Center Court Club experience.”
Tickets are now on sale for the Virtual Center Court Club and proceeds will go to benefit Feeding America, a non-profit organization that helps feed those in need across the country.
