Who Televises LIV Golf? Fox Sports Secures Multiyear Broadcast Deal
LIV Golf tournaments will now be broadcast live on Fox Sports, marking a significant step for the controversial Saudi-backed golf league. A multiyear agreement ensures that U.S. viewers can watch all three rounds of each LIV Golf event on Fox channels or the Fox Sports app.
Fox Sports to Broadcast Majority of LIV Golf Events Live
The deal signifies a major broadcasting upgrade for LIV Golf. More than half of the 14 scheduled tournaments will be broadcast live on either Fox or FS1. The remaining rounds will be available on FS2, Fox Business Network, or the Fox Sports app. Every round, regardless of the channel, will be streamed on both the Fox Sports app and LIV Golf+, the league’s own streaming platform. While the financial details remain undisclosed, this partnership provides LIV Golf with a much-needed platform for wider audience reach in the U.S.
LIV Golf’s New Era Under CEO Scott O’Neil and Continued Partnership with Greg Norman
This broadcasting deal comes on the heels of leadership changes within LIV Golf. Scott O’Neil, formerly of Merlin Entertainments, recently took the helm as CEO, replacing Greg Norman in day-to-day operations. Norman, however, will continue to be involved with the league in an unspecified role. O’Neil expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Fox Sports, highlighting the network’s prominent position in the sports broadcasting landscape. He emphasized LIV Golf’s commitment to attracting a younger and more tech-savvy audience.
LIV Golf’s 2024 Season Tee Off and Tournament Schedule
The 2024 LIV Golf season kicks off in February at Riyadh Golf Club in Saudi Arabia. Subsequent tournaments are scheduled in Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore before the tour makes its way to the United States. The first U.S. tournament will be held at Trump National Doral Golf Club in Miami in April, just a week before the Masters Tournament. This strategic scheduling aims to capitalize on the heightened interest in golf during the Masters period.
Enhanced Visibility for LIV Golf After The CW Network’s Low Viewership
Previously, LIV Golf tournaments were broadcast on The CW network, where they struggled to garner significant viewership. Reports indicate that fewer than 100,000 viewers tuned in to watch Jon Rahm’s victory in the 2024 individual championship. The partnership with Fox Sports offers a significant opportunity to improve viewership numbers and broaden the league’s appeal. Fox Sports executive Jordan Bazant echoed this sentiment, stating that LIV Golf aligns perfectly with the network’s commitment to showcasing high-profile sporting events. The increased visibility provided by Fox Sports is crucial for LIV Golf’s continued growth and its efforts to solidify its place within the professional golf world.
