In a landmark deal that is set to shake up the world of professional golf, LIV Golf has finalized a multiyear broadcast agreement with Fox Sports to air its tournaments live in the United States starting this season. The groundbreaking partnership, announced on Thursday, will see more than half of LIV Golf’s 14 events in 2025 televised on either the Fox network or FS1, with select rounds also available on FS2, Fox Business Network, and streaming on the Fox Sports App.
The exact financial terms were not disclosed, and it remains unclear if Fox Sports will be paying a rights fee to the controversial Saudi-backed golf series. However, the deal undoubtedly represents a major milestone for LIV Golf, which has faced significant challenges in securing a reliable broadcast partner and attracting widespread viewership since its inception in 2021.
A New Era for LIV Golf
Commenting on the historic agreement, newly appointed LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil expressed his excitement, stating:
“We are thrilled to partner with FOX Sports, one of the preeminent broadcast networks in the world. LIV Golf is getting bigger and bolder, and this relationship signals the next phase of growth as our league joins the company of the nation’s premier sports leagues and conferences.”
– Scott O’Neil, CEO of LIV Golf
O’Neil, who officially took over as CEO on Wednesday, replaces former chief Greg Norman. Norman will reportedly hand over day-to-day operations but remain involved with LIV Golf in an undisclosed capacity moving forward.
Expanded Reach and Younger Audience
The Fox Sports deal is expected to significantly boost LIV Golf’s exposure in the U.S. market, where it previously struggled to gain traction broadcasting on the CW Network. According to Golfweek, average viewership for LIV events in its first two seasons failed to surpass 100,000.
O’Neil highlighted the potential for LIV Golf to capture a coveted younger demographic, stating:
“LIV Golf is drawing a younger, more active and tech-savvy fan base, and as our players and teams prepare for LIV Golf’s biggest season yet, this agreement will take our broadcast to new heights.”
Fox Sports Embraces Golf’s Evolution
For its part, Fox Sports expressed enthusiasm about adding LIV Golf to its lineup of premier sporting events, which already includes the NFL, MLB, and MLS. Jordan Bazant, Fox Sports’ executive vice president, commented:
“FOX Sports is excited to broadcast the LIV Golf League, showcasing athletes at the top of their game competing at an elite level for viewers across the nation. The addition of LIV Golf is a natural fit for FOX Sports’ prominent slate of big events, world-class names and premium sports coverage.”
– Jordan Bazant, EVP at Fox Sports
The partnership with Fox Sports comes at a critical juncture for LIV Golf as it looks to establish itself as a legitimate alternative to the PGA Tour. Despite attracting notable players like Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, and Brooks Koepka with lucrative contracts, the Saudi-financed series has faced persistent criticism over human rights concerns and its impact on the traditions of professional golf.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
LIV Golf’s third season is set to kick off at Riyadh Golf Club in Saudi Arabia from February 6-8, followed by stops in Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The series will make its U.S. debut at Trump National Doral Golf Club in Miami from April 4-6, strategically positioned the week before the Masters Tournament.
With the backing of Fox Sports and its expansive media reach, LIV Golf is banking on 2025 being a breakthrough year in terms of mainstream acceptance, TV viewership, and its ability to coexist alongside the PGA Tour. However, significant questions remain:
- Can LIV Golf shed its controversial image and win over skeptical golf fans?
- Will more top-ranked players defect to the upstart series, escalating tensions with the PGA Tour?
- How will the Fox Sports deal impact LIV Golf’s long-term financial sustainability and sponsorship appeal?
As the battle for the future of professional golf enters a pivotal new chapter, all eyes will be on LIV Golf and its audacious bet that a rival tour, fueled by Saudi petrodollars and powered by Fox Sports, can permanently alter the landscape of the sport. Only time will tell if this polarizing venture will ultimately prove to be a disruptive force for good or a misguided detour from tradition.
