CBS Prepares for 70th Consecutive Masters: Achieving Immortality in Golf
CBS is gearing up for its 70th year broadcasting the Masters, making it the longest-running sports event on any one network. This long-standing partnership with Augusta National Golf Club is a special one for CBS Sports president David Berson, who emphasized the deep bond they have. Planning for this event goes on all year, with constant communication and collaboration to make each year better than the last.
While CBS has a plethora of sports properties like the NFL and March Madness, the Masters stands out as one of their most iconic events due to its enduring partnership. Surprisingly, the Masters doesn’t make any money off its domestic media deals, but the viewership has seen a bit of a drop in recent years. With last year’s final round pulling in 9.59 million viewers, down 20% from 2023, the anticipation is building for this year’s tournament.
For all the golf enthusiasts out there, here’s a quick rundown of how to catch the action. CBS is adding five more hours of live third- and final-round coverage on CBS and Paramount+ this year, with additional streaming options available. ESPN will cover the first and second rounds, offering featured groups and hole coverage. Keep an eye out for Jim Nantz leading the CBS team and Scott Van Pelt heading up ESPN’s coverage.
Looking ahead to the tournament, the favorites like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler are generating buzz, but the field is wide open. CBS promises to cover all the players, including LIV competitors like Bryson DeChambeau, who made waves last year. There will also be plenty of shoulder programming and Masters specials to keep fans engaged throughout the tournament.
As for Nantz’s dedication to the Masters, it’s the real deal. He sees the Green Jacket as a symbol of excellence in golf, reflecting the highest achievement in the sport. With the tournament just around the corner, golf fans can look forward to another thrilling Masters event steeped in tradition and excellence.
