Golf enthusiasts around the globe eagerly anticipate the Open Golf Championship each year. As one of the four major championships in professional golf, this prestigious tournament showcases some of the world’s best players vying for the coveted Claret Jug. But for fans, the excitement isn’t just about what happens on the course; it’s also about knowing exactly when and where to catch all the action on TV. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of watching the Open Golf Championship, including broadcast times, channels, and how you can enjoy the tournament from the comfort of your home.
The Open Championship: A Brief Overview
The Open Championship, often referred to simply as “The Open,” is the oldest golf tournament in the world, first held in 1860. This tournament is part of the four major championships in professional golf, alongside the Masters, the U.S. Open, and the PGA Championship. Each year, the tournament takes place at one of several historic links courses in the United Kingdom.
Key Highlights of The Open Championship:
- First held in 1860, making it the oldest golf tournament.
- Played annually, usually in July.
- Features a diverse field of international golfers.
Understanding Broadcast Times
Knowing when to tune in for The Open can enhance your viewing experience. The tournament typically spans four days, starting on Thursday and concluding with the final round on Sunday. Broadcast times may vary based on your location and the broadcaster in your region.
General Viewing Schedule
The Open Golf Championship generally follows this viewing schedule:
- Round 1 and Round 2: These rounds take place on Thursday and Friday, usually beginning early in the morning (GMT) and often running until late afternoon or early evening.
- Round 3: Held on Saturday, the timings are similar to those of the previous rounds.
- Final Round: Sunday typically sees the final round beginning early in the morning and culminating in the tournament’s conclusion, often in the mid to late afternoon.
Time Zones and Adjustments
Since The Open is held in the UK, viewers needing to watch from different countries must account for time zone differences. Here’s how that breaks down:
| Location | Time Zone | Time Difference from GMT |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Standard Time (EST) | UTC -5 | -5 hours |
| Central Standard Time (CST) | UTC -6 | -6 hours |
| Pacific Standard Time (PST) | UTC -8 | -8 hours |
| Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) | UTC +0 | 0 hours |
For viewers in the United States, this means that if the tournament starts at 9 AM GMT, it will air at:
– 4 AM EST
– 3 AM CST
– 1 AM PST
Using this table, it becomes easier to plan your viewing schedule accordingly.
Where to Watch The Open Championship on TV
The Open Championship is broadcasted across various networks, depending on your geographical location. Here are some of the primary broadcasters:
North America
In the United States, coverage of The Open is predominantly handled by NBC Sports and Golf Channel. They offer comprehensive coverage, including live broadcasts of all rounds, as well as pre-round analysis and post-game commentary.
For those watching from Canada, TSN (The Sports Network) is the go-to channel for following the tournament live.
Europe and the UK
In the UK, Sky Sports typically has exclusive rights to broadcast the Open Golf Championship. Sky Sports provides in-depth coverage, including live feeds, expert analysis, and interviews with players and officials.
Additionally, the BBC also provides some highlights and coverage, but primarily focuses on day highlights and reviews rather than live play.
Australia and Asia
For viewers in Australia, Fox Sports is the key broadcaster for The Open, delivering live coverage and extensive tournament analysis. In regions like Asia, the coverage may vary by country, but platforms like Fox Sports Asia often provide live telecasts and updates.
Digital Streaming Options
In today’s digital age, many fans prefer to watch the Open Golf Championship online. A number of channels provide streaming services, allowing you to watch the tournament live from your mobile devices or computers.
Streaming Services in the US
- Peacock: NBC’s streaming service offers live coverage of the tournament.
- Golf Channel App: This app provides live streaming of The Open Championship, as well as additional content related to golf.
Streaming in the UK
- Sky Go: If you are a Sky Sports subscriber, you can access live streaming through the Sky Go app or website.
- BBC iPlayer: For those looking for highlights after the matches.
Watching The Open Championship: Tips to Enhance Your Experience
While knowing when and where to watch the Open Golf Championship is crucial, certain viewing tips can elevate your overall experience.
Plan Your Viewing Party
Why not gather your friends and family for a viewing party? Set up a cozy area with comfortable seating, snacks, and refreshments. A golf-themed menu with items like “birdie burgers” or “eagle cupcakes” could add a fun twist.
Follow Player Stats and Leaderboards
Staying updated on player performances can enhance your engagement with the tournament. Websites and apps dedicated to golf statistics can provide live leaderboards, allowing you to track player progress in real time.
Utilize Social Media
Social media can offer a wealth of information and live commentary during the tournament. Follow relevant hashtags and professional golfers’ accounts on platforms like Twitter and Instagram for additional insights, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
Conclusion
Knowing what time to watch the Open Golf Championship on TV is essential for golf enthusiasts keen on catching every thrilling moment. By understanding the broadcast schedule, identifying channels and streaming options, and planning your viewing experience, you’re well-prepared to enjoy one of golf’s most prestigious events.
Ultimately, the Open Championship isn’t just about the sport; it’s a celebration of golf, camaraderie, and the thrill of competition that captures the hearts of spectators worldwide. So, clear your schedule, prepare your favorite snacks, and get ready to cheer for your favorite players as they embark on their quest for the Claret Jug!
When does the Open Golf Championship take place?
The Open Golf Championship typically takes place in July each year, with the exact dates varying slightly from year to year. The tournament usually commences on the third Thursday of July and runs through to the following Sunday. This timing allows for better weather conditions during the summer months, which is host to many professional golf tournaments.
The most recent editions have seen the tournament return to its traditional July slot after some adjustments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is advisable to check the official Open Championship website or golf news websites for the exact schedule as the tournament date approaches.
Where is the Open Golf Championship held this year?
The Open Golf Championship is hosted at various renowned links courses in the UK, with each tournament being held at a different venue. The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews is the “home” of the Championship and frequently serves as a host, but other prestigious locations like Royal Liverpool and Royal Portrush also alternate as venues.
For the current year, the championship location can be confirmed through official announcements on the Open Championship’s website. This information is usually made public well in advance, providing fans ample opportunity to follow the tournament live or plan a visit.
Which TV channels will broadcast the Open Golf Championship?
The broadcast rights for the Open Golf Championship vary by country, so viewers should check local listings to find the correct channels. In the United States, networks like NBC and Golf Channel typically provide coverage of the event, while in the UK, Sky Sports has the exclusive broadcasting rights.
Many local and international sports channels may also cover the championship, providing replays and highlights. Streaming services that partner with these networks often feature live broadcasts, so golf fans can enjoy the action on various platforms.
Will the Open Golf Championship be available for streaming?
Yes, the Open Golf Championship is usually available for streaming through various platforms. In regions where networks hold the broadcasting rights, many of them offer live streams on their websites or dedicated apps. For example, NBC in the U.S. and Sky Sports in the UK often provide online access to live feeds for subscribers.
Additionally, some sports streaming services may offer access to the Open Golf Championship. Checking the listings of services like ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, or other sports-focused platforms can provide further streaming options, ensuring fans don’t miss any of the action.
What time does the Open Golf Championship start each day?
The tee times for the Open Golf Championship can vary each day based on the schedule and weather conditions. Typically, the first groups tee off in the early morning, around 6:30 AM local time, with subsequent groups starting throughout the day. The last groups generally tee off in the early afternoon.
To find specific start times for each day of the tournament, it’s best to visit the official Open Championship website just before the event starts. They provide detailed schedules that include not only the tee times but also which players are in each group, helping fans plan their viewing.
Can I watch the Open Golf Championship highlights?
Absolutely! Highlights of the Open Golf Championship are often made available shortly after each day’s play. Networks that cover the tournament frequently air highlight reels, showcasing key moments from the rounds, including impressive shots, notable birdies, and critical plays that shaped the day’s events.
Additionally, online platforms like YouTube, as well as the official tournament website, often post highlight videos, allowing fans to catch up on the action they might have missed. Social media accounts associated with the Championship also share condensed highlight clips throughout the tournament.
Are there any international broadcasts for the Open Golf Championship?
Yes, the Open Golf Championship is broadcast internationally in various regions. Major sports networks in countries such as Australia, Canada, and across Europe typically secure viewing rights to air the championship. For instance, networks such as TSN in Canada or Fox Sports in Australia provide comprehensive coverage of the event.
To find out which channels are airing the tournament in a specific country, checking the official Open Championship website will provide a list of global partners. This ensures that golf fans around the world can enjoy the tournament live or through international broadcasts.