Apple TV Eyes Open Championship US Broadcast Rights in Sports Push 2026

Apple TV has joined the battle to win US rights to golf’s Open Championship, marking a significant step in the streaming platform’s sports broadcasting expansion. The tech giant’s interest in this prestigious tournament signals a potential shift in how major golf events are delivered to American audiences.

Apple TV’s Growing Sports Portfolio

Apple has been aggressively pursuing sports rights to bolster its streaming service. After a mixed experience with Major League Soccer (MLS), where a 10-year, $2.5 billion deal was terminated early due to low viewership, Apple remains committed to finding the right properties. The company recently secured a five-year, $750 million deal for exclusive Formula One rights in the US, demonstrating its willingness to invest heavily in premium sports content.

Now, Apple is setting its sights on golf’s oldest major championship. Preliminary discussions with the R&A, the governing body that runs The Open, have reportedly taken place. The current US broadcast deal with NBC, which includes shared rights with Versant’s Golf Channel, expires in 2028, making the next tender process highly competitive.

The Open Championship: A Prestigious Target

The Open, also known as the British Open, is one of golf’s four major championships and holds immense historical significance. Securing its US broadcast rights would give Apple TV a marquee event to attract subscribers and enhance its sports offerings. The R&A expects interest not only from Apple but also from other streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon, creating a fierce bidding war against traditional broadcasters.

NBC has held the rights since 2017, when it outbid ESPN for a 12-year contract. However, with the changing media landscape, incumbents face increasing pressure from deep-pocketed tech companies looking to disrupt the status quo.

Comparison: Apple’s Sports Deals

Impact on Golf Broadcasting

If Apple secures The Open rights, it could transform how golf fans access live coverage. Streaming platforms offer flexibility, interactive features, and potentially lower costs compared to traditional cable packages. However, challenges remain, including ensuring reliable streaming quality for long tournament days and reaching older demographics who may prefer linear TV.

The R&A has expressed satisfaction with its current NBC partnership, which has delivered significant benefits for The Open and the AIG Women’s Open. Yet, the organization is monitoring the evolving broadcast landscape and open to exploring new opportunities.

Key Takeaways for Golf Fans

• Apple TV is actively pursuing The Open’s US broadcast rights, indicating its commitment to sports.
• NBC’s current deal runs through 2028, but competition is intensifying.
• Streaming platforms could offer innovative viewing experiences for golf tournaments.
• The R&A is open to all bidders, ensuring a competitive tender process.

FAQ

As the sports broadcasting landscape evolves, Apple’s potential acquisition of The Open US rights could be a game-changer. Golf fans should stay tuned for updates, as the next few years will determine the future of how they watch the sport’s most historic major.