What are your future plans? LIV Golf urgently needs a major TV deal.
What are your future plans? LIV Golf urgently needs a major TV deal.
LIV Golf’s trajectory to great success, fueled by the acquisition of John Rahm, hinges on key decisions to secure a major television deal for the upcoming 2025 season. Recognizing the limitations of the CW network’s current contracts, the league aims to take strategic steps to strengthen its reputation while increasing its reach, fan engagement and overall appeal by moving to a major network such as NBC, ABC, FOX or ESPN. world. Empire of the Gulf.
After bringing in Jon Rahm, the best golfer in the world, many are wondering what the next step is for LIV Golf to become a legitimate PGA contender. LIV Golf has taken an important step forward by signing Rahm, but must recognize the importance of securing a significant television deal for next year’s 2025 season as the league pursues wider success. The CW network is not a viable option for revenue and sustained growth. Dawson’s Creek reruns are not a good introduction to the LIV tour and fan base.
The CW contract runs through the end of 2024, but after that, LIV will have to sign a deal with one of the major networks: NBC, ABC, FOX and ESPN. As we know, that can be a steep climb when you think about where the money comes from and the ethics behind such decisions.
We all know that money plays an important role in business. But what is it worth? Is the risk for a major network worth the reward?
The LIV 2023 golf opening round broadcast format, which is limited to non-TV streaming platforms as well as the CW network itself, raises concerns about accessibility and exposure. The decision to broadcast international events on tape-delay adds another level of complexity that reduces the live viewing experience for fans. This discrepancy in broadcast quality is especially noticeable when combined with competing live events. With an ambitious schedule of six domestic events and eight international tournaments for 2024, LIV Golf threatens to alienate its loyal fan base, forcing them to rely on delayed scores and events with known results even before broadcast.
Last year’s important playoff between Talor Gooch and Brooks Koepka in Jeddah is an example of a missed opportunity for the league to attract viewers. Exciting moments like these deserve must-see TV coverage, expanding the league’s appeal and continually engaging fans.
For golf leagues seeking mainstream recognition and large fan bases, addressing current broadcast restrictions is a top priority. Signing a major TV deal with a major network not only provides more exposure, but also increases the league’s visibility to potential fans. Moving from the underperforming and complementary CW network to an established network like NBC, ABC, FOX or ESPN is consistent with the league’s growth ambitions and increases its chances of success. As LIV Golf continues to attract top talent and complete many other rumored deals, a strategic TV partnership is the next logical step to solidify its position as a premier golf organization on the world stage.
