The United States Golf Association (USGA) has announced the launch of a new mobile app that will integrate all 15 of its championships into a single digital platform. This move aims to create a more seamless and engaging experience for golf fans, while also promoting the USGA’s amateur, junior, and senior events.
Previously, the USGA offered distinct apps for individual tournaments. While this approach allowed the app to be customised for each event, it did mean that users would delete it once the final putt had been sunk. The new app will act as an ‘all-in-one’ experience to encourage golf fans to keep it installed year-round.
The USGA’s new app will offer live scoring and tee times for all 15 championships, as well as Curtis Cup and Walker Cup matches. Crucially, a modular development structure means the USGA can add specific features for specific events, meaning comprehensive coverage does not come at the expense of functionality for its blue ribband events.
This means the app can show live streaming of featured groups and holes from its biggest events, the US Open and US Women’s Open. In addition, the updated platform will be able to carry scorecard highlights for every televised shot from those tournaments, a feature which also applies to the US Senior Open and US Women’s Senior Open.
Users can receive personalised alerts for their favourite players, access real-time statistics and artificial intelligence-powered (AI) win probabilities for selected events. The app also offers on-site GPS navigation and mobile ticketing, ensuring only one app is required for fans at home and at the course.
The launch coincides with a revamp of the USGA’s official website, with a common look and feel between the two digital products. The USGA’s website will also offer improved video content, as well as enhanced player, course and historical content.
“Launching the USGA app and updating our website is a major milestone as we continue to build and strengthen our direct-to-consumer offerings,” said Amanda Weiner, USGA managing director, digital media and ticketing. “We are thrilled to deliver a reimagined product that will enhance and personalise the way fans engage with our championships year-round.”
The app was built by Deloitte, which has served as the USGA and the US Open’s official digital transformation partner since 2014, and has also renewed its sponsorship and professional services relationship. Deloitte worked closely with the USGA to ensure the app would provide an engaging experience for golf fans, while also meeting the USGA’s strategic objectives.