Free-to-Air Golf is Back on UK TV screens!
LIV Golf has shaken up the UK broadcast scene by securing a major deal with ITV. The agreement means that 41 rounds from 14 tournaments will be shown live and free-to-air.
This is a big moment for golf fans who have been locked behind paywalls for years. For many, it’s the first time in years they’ll be able to watch top-level golf without a subscription.
Breaking the Sky Sports Monopoly
For a long time, Sky Sports has dominated UK golf coverage. With the BBC stepping back, there was little room for free-to-air broadcasts.
Many believed UK broadcasters had no interest in showing live golf without a subscription fee. But LIV Golf has now changed the game.
ITV Brings Golf Back to the Masses
ITV will air selected live rounds on ITV1 and ITV4, with ITVX hosting full coverage. A weekly highlights show will also be available on ITV4.
This marks a major shift in how UK fans can watch top-level golf without a paywall. It’s a move that could attract new viewers and grow the sport’s audience.
Sloane: “A Huge Step for LIV Golf”
ITV Sport’s director, Niall Sloane, is excited about the partnership. He said: “This is an exciting time for LIV Golf as we look ahead to the innovative 2025 season.”
He added: “This partnership delivers free-to-air coverage for fans in the UK, and we are delighted to welcome LIV Golf to ITV Sport.”
LIV’s Growing Global Reach
This isn’t LIV Golf’s first big TV deal. The rebel tour has already secured a similar partnership with Fox Sports in the US.
By landing a UK deal, LIV is further cementing itself as a major player in global golf broadcasting. More people worldwide will now be able to follow the action.
The First Event on ITV
The first round to be shown live on ITV will be round two of LIV’s 2025 season opener in Riyadh. This event marks the start of what promises to be a thrilling season.
It’s a significant moment for the tour, which has previously been available only through online streaming. With ITV’s coverage, LIV will reach a much broader audience.
“A Major Milestone for LIV Golf”
Ron Wechsler, LIV Golf’s senior vice president of broadcast partnerships, called the ITV deal a landmark moment. He said: “Our partnership with ITV represents a major milestone as we strive to bring LIV Golf to every corner of the world.”
Wechsler highlighted how the deal will help expand LIV’s audience. He believes it will give fans unprecedented access to the excitement of LIV Golf.
LIV Players Get a US Open Boost
It’s been a positive week for LIV players. The United States Golf Association (USGA) has announced that the top-ranked LIV player (not otherwise exempt) will earn a spot at the US Open.
This is the first time LIV’s rankings have been recognised in a major championship qualification process. It’s a big step toward greater legitimacy for the tour.
The Open Could Follow Suit
The R&A is now expected to grant similar exemptions for The Open Championship at Royal Portrush in July. If that happens, it would be a massive step toward full major recognition for LIV players.
With two of golf’s biggest majors considering LIV players for direct qualification, it could change how the sport’s governing bodies view the breakaway tour.
PGA Tour and LIV Nearing Peace?
Meanwhile, the PGA Tour and LIV Golf’s backers, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), are in ongoing negotiations. The aim is to bring an end to the divide in professional golf.
Both sides have been at odds since LIV’s launch. However, recent talks suggest they may be edging closer to some form of agreement.
Even Trump is Involved!
The discussions have taken an unexpected turn, with Donald Trump reportedly being called in to mediate. The former US president has been a vocal supporter of LIV Golf.
Trump has hosted multiple LIV events at his golf courses. His involvement could help push negotiations toward a resolution, though opinions on his role remain divided.
A New Era for Golf?
With LIV Golf securing free-to-air coverage, gaining major championship recognition, and pushing for peace talks with the PGA Tour, the sport is at a crossroads.
The 2025 season is shaping up to be a defining year in professional golf. How things unfold could have lasting implications for the game’s future.
What It Means for Fans
For UK golf fans, this deal is great news. No more missing out on high-stakes tournaments just because they’re locked behind a paywall.
With ITV’s coverage, more people than ever will get to experience the excitement of LIV Golf. It’s a chance for new audiences to get hooked on the action.
The Future is Bright
With increasing TV deals and growing legitimacy, LIV Golf is proving that it’s here to stay. Love it or hate it, one thing is clear—LIV Golf is changing the landscape of professional golf for good.
The competition between LIV and the PGA Tour is far from over. But for now, LIV has landed a significant win with its ITV deal.
