By Paul Hayes

SYDNEY, NSW: Australian audiences last night experienced their first ever 3D sporting event with the Fox Sports broadcast of the Socceroos’ victory against New Zealand at the MCG.

With sport, and soccer in particular in the lead up to the World Cup, being a major hook in getting consumers to make the switch to the latest 3D TVs, last night’s broadcast was something of a test for the industry.

Speaking to Current.com.au, Fox Sports director, Soames Treffry, was wildly enthusiastic about the Australian debut of 3D sports and its future prospects.

“Last night’s broadcast was awesome.

“A thrilling success.”

With only Samsung and LG having 3D TVs on the market, it may be too early to tell what impact the event had, or will have, on 3D TV sales, but Sony Australia managing director, Carl Rose, sees a very positive future.

“There is an extremely exciting future for 3D TV in Australia, particularly when it comes to sport.”

Sony is a major sponsor of the upcoming FIFA World Cup and has committed to broadcasting 25 matches of the tournament in 3D.

This week will also see Australia’s first free-to-air 3D broadcast, with Channel Nine screening the State of Origin rugby on Wednesday 26 June in the new format.

Current.com.au will be attending a 3D screening of the rugby and offer analysis on Thursday 27 June.