LIV Golf 2025: A New Era of Free-to-Air Coverage in the UK

LIV Golf’s UK Broadcast Deal with ITV

LIV Golf has finalized a landmark agreement with ITV to showcase its 2025 season live in the UK. This partnership marks a pivotal step in making the Saudi-backed golf series more accessible to fans. Coverage will launch with the second round of the season-opening event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and will include 14 tournaments featuring 41 rounds of live golf. Selected rounds will also be broadcast on ITV1 and ITV4, complemented by a weekly highlights show on ITV4. This move ensures that LIV Golf will be the only free-to-air golf series available in the UK.

A Game-Changer for Golf Fans

Niall Sloane, Director of ITV Sport, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration:

"This is an exciting time for LIV Golf as we look ahead to the innovative 2025 season. This partnership delivers free-to-air coverage for fans in the UK, and we are delighted to welcome LIV Golf to ITV Sport."

Ron Wechsler, LIV Golf’s Senior Vice President of Broadcast Partnerships, also highlighted the significance of the deal:

"This is a major milestone as we strive to bring LIV Golf to every corner of the world."

Expanding Opportunities for LIV Players

In related news, the US Open has announced that it will grant exemptions to top LIV Golf players based on their rankings. The United States Golf Association (USGA) confirmed that the highest-ranked LIV player, who is not already exempt, will earn a direct spot in the US Open field. The tournament is scheduled to take place at the Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania from June 12-15, 2025.

The Road Ahead for Golf

The PGA Tour continues to engage in negotiations with LIV Golf’s financial backers, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), in an effort to reconcile the ongoing divide in professional golf. Recent developments suggest progress, with the PGA Tour stating that it is "closer to a deal" following calls for intervention by former US President Donald Trump.

This partnership with ITV not only enhances LIV Golf’s visibility but also underscores its commitment to reshaping the landscape of professional golf on a global scale.