Apple Reportedly Exploring Deal for The Open Golf Rights in the US

Apple is reportedly exploring another major sports deal as the company holds early talks over US broadcast rights to golf’s Open Championship, adding one of the sport’s biggest tournaments to its growing list of potential live sports properties. The Open Championship is the oldest of golf’s four men’s majors, with the tournament first played in Scotland in 1860 and now run by the R&A. In the United States, some viewers still refer to it as the British Open to separate it from the US Open. The Guardian reports that Apple has held preliminary discussions with the R&A about bidding for the next US media rights package, while Netflix and Amazon are also expected to show interest in the tournament. NBC secured a 12-year agreement for The Open in 2017 after outbidding ESPN, while Versant also carries coverage through Golf Channel. The current rights setup means the R&A will first discuss its next media cycle with existing partners before considering other offers. Apple continues to invest in live sports The report says Apple remains interested in expanding its sports lineup and continues to look for rights that fit its broader streaming strategy. A deal for The Open would give Apple access to one of golf’s most established events and another major live sports property in the US. Apple already has several important sports partnerships, including Friday Night Baseball and Major League Soccer matches through MLS Season Pass. The company also announced an exclusive US Formula 1 broadcast partnership last year. The R&A said it values its relationship with NBC and Versant and plans to speak with both companies about the next rights cycle, while continuing to monitor interest from other broadcasters and streaming services.