SportAI has big plans for tennis analytics. The startup wants to improve not only a player's technique, but also the racket he swings.
The Norway-based company analyzes sports footage in real time and then provides instant, personalized feedback.
Tennis players receive training tips from the system. Racket manufacturers and retailers can use the findings to derive product recommendations.
“The AI analyzes a player’s technique, identifies specific needs based on their style and level of play, and recommends equipment that will improve their performance,” Lauren Pedersen, CEO of SportsAI, told TNW.
“It can identify the need for certain racket weights or specifications that are appropriate for advanced players versus beginners, or suggest equipment tailored to all-court players versus baseline players.”
Peterson is interested in the benefits from a sports perspective. Before co-founding SportsAI, she was an NCAA tennis player. Now she represents Norway at the ITF Masters World Championships.
Peterson, originally from New Zealand, moved to Oslo in 2007 and focused on start-ups.
After working at the technology companies Opera and Airthings, she co-founded SportAI in 2023.
Computer Vision for Tennis
The platform evaluates individual tennis strokes. Image credit: SportAI
SportAI can analyze video from mobile phones, field-mounted cameras, or broadcast feeds.
Using a combination of machine learning and computer vision, the system interprets the biomechanical data and then communicates the findings directly to users.
This approach eliminates the need for manual tagging and special hardware. Consequently, SportAI can reduce the cost of advanced analytics.
The SaaS platform also promises broader access to sports insights, with companies able to integrate the software directly into their coaching, equipment and reporting.
A fresh injection of funds – announced today – could accelerate the launch. The seed round of $1.8 million was led by Skyfall Venturesa VC firm based in Oslo.
Additional funds came from two athletes: Cover Valtzer, a former tennis pro and now startup founder, and Magnus Carlsenthe highest ranked chess player of all time. Carlsen also led SportAI’s pre-seed round and is an advisor to the company.
With the new funds, SportsAI can aims to to accelerate the reach of sports analytics. The company also plans to announce its first commercial deal soon.
SportsAI is not yet ready to announce the name of the partner, but Peterson gave hints.
She describes the mysterious business as “prominent global platform that connects over a million racket sports enthusiasts” and “monitors Thousands of dishes.”
Through the collaboration, SportAI will offer:AI-driven improvements,” such as “personalized technique analysis and detailed match statistics.” Check back here to see the results on the pitch.
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