Masters Saturday TV Coverage Draws Record Viewership In 2026
Masters Saturday TV Coverage Draws Record Viewership In 2026...
The 2026 Masters Tournament saw record-breaking TV ratings for its Saturday coverage, with ESPN reporting a 12% increase in viewership compared to last year. Golf fans tuned in en masse to watch the dramatic "Moving Day" action at Augusta National, where rising star Jake Carter surged into contention with a bogey-free 65.
Broadcast analysts attribute the spike to perfect spring weather conditions and a tightly packed leaderboard featuring five players within three strokes. The telecast averaged 8.9 million viewers during its 3-7 PM ET window, making it the most-watched golf event of the year so far.
Augusta National's limited commercial policy continued this year, with just four minutes of ads per hour. This unique approach keeps viewers engaged during critical tournament moments. Social media buzzed with reactions to Amen Corner coverage, particularly Carter's daring approach shot at the iconic 12th hole.
CBS takes over Sunday coverage with Jim Nantz calling his 40th Masters final round. The network extended its traditional one-hour highlight show to 90 minutes this year due to fan demand. Tiger Woods' unexpected weekend appearance in the broadcast booth also contributed to Saturday's viewer interest.
Digital streaming numbers set new records as well, with Masters.com reporting 3.2 million concurrent users during the afternoon peak. The tournament's app saw 48% more activity than 2025, reflecting golf's growing younger demographic. Sunday's final round begins at 2 PM ET with featured group coverage before the main broadcast at 3 PM.
