A competition for entrepreneurs fusing AI and sports is launched by IBM and Sharapova

Technology corporation IBM and former Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova announced a new competition for entrepreneurs that integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and sport. In areas like athlete performance, stadium operations, and fan interaction on Monday at the Web Summit 2025 in Lisbon.

The Sports Tech Startup Challenge will take place over the course of the next year, with regional competitions in Doha, Vancouver, Canada, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Web Summit Lisbon 2026 will host the final to determine the victors.

Attending the competition’s presentation on Monday as part of the opening of the tenth edition of the Web Summit Lisbon. Former tennis player and businesswoman Maria Sharapova noted that «it has been incredible to see the transition. Especially in the way athletes prepare for matches and recover after them» with the arrival of AI.

“I remember spending several hours with my coach while he reviewed different videos to compile a two-minute clip that I could watch before a match, to review my opponent’s favorite shots, where they were going to serve at break point; all of that took him several hours, but now IBM provides me with that in a matter of minutes, as well as predictive patterns about myself,” said the Russian tennis player.

In partnership with the IBM Sports and Entertainment Partnership team, contest winners will get a paid proof of concept worth up to $100,000. As well as review for business funding and mentoring from leading IBM specialists in technology, innovation, and business development.

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