Apple TV purportedly wants the US rights to golf’s Open Championship in the company’s latest move into sports.
The Guardian reports that the company has had preliminary discussions with the R&A — the collective name of a group of companies that together play a significant role in the game of golf — about bidding for the Open, whose current US deal with NBC expires in 2028. The process will continue at the start of next year, with the R&A also expecting interest from Netflix and Amazon in a major challenge to traditional broadcasters, the article adds.
NBC has had live rights to the Open since 2017 when it outbid existing holders ESPN to secure a 12-year deal, but now appears in danger of losing its foothold. NBC’s Open rights are shared with media company Versant, who operate the Golf Channel.
The Open Championship, often referred to as The Open or the British Open outside of the UK, is the oldest golf tournament in the world, and one of the most prestigious. Founded in 1860, it was originally held annually at Prestwick Golf Club in Scotland. Later the venue rotated among a select group of coastal links golf courses in the United Kingdom. It’s organized by The R&A.
I hope you’ll help support Apple World Today by becoming a patron. Almost all our income is from Patreon support and sponsored posts. Patreon pricing ranges from $2 to $10 a month. Thanks in advance for your support.
