With just two weeks until Wimbledon officially opens its gates, Barclays has unveiled its plans for its debut year as the official banking partner of The Championships, Wimbledon.
Frances Tiafoe, who was recently announced as Barclays’ tennis ambassador, will be the subject of a global TV advert, created by Barclays that will tell the 25-year-old’s story and the many partners who have helped him along the way.
The short film brings to life his journey from a young child and son of Sierra Leonean immigrants in Hyattsville, Maryland learning to play tennis at the JTCC in suburban Washington, D.C., to where he is today – a Grand Slam semi-finalist and top 10 player.
Frances Tiafoe, commented, “Wimbledon is everything. Growing up when I was a kid hitting a ball against the wall and dreaming, I was always imagining playing at Wimbledon. I hope by doing what I love and (hopefully) continuing to have good results that I can inspire kids that look like me, that are growing up in challenging situations, to take up sports, to take up tennis.”
Barclays has also created three destinations to activate within the Wimbledon grounds.
Barclays Clubhouse in the Queue will boost fans’ waiting experience by introducing umpire greeters, dressing room pop ups and other fan surprises. Barclays customers will also be served free refreshing juices in the Deuce Bar and fans looking to test their tennis skills can also take on World No.10, Frances Tiafoe, in the simulator experience ‘Take on Tiafoe’, which gives fans the chance to return a serve from Frances’ actual winning games.
Within the Grounds, the Barclays Fanzone will include appearances and exclusive Q&As with tennis stars, as well as immersive photo opportunities.
Barclays Clubhouse Parkside will act as the ‘premier destination for fan experiences with prizes to be won – from tickets to merchandise.
Tom Corbett, Group Head of Sponsorship and Media at Barclays, said, “We’re incredibly excited to be bringing our partnership with Wimbledon to life for the first time for tennis fans to enjoy. Our joint commitment to create opportunities through programmes such as Set for Success means our partnership can deliver a deep and long-lasting impact for young people across the country.”
The activations have been created alongside UK sports agency M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment.
