Rain Hindering U.S. Open, Could Hurt Coverage

The U.S. Open returns to Bethpage Black after seven years with a multitude of storylines. However, rain being forecast throughout the weekend has to make NBC and ESPN nervous about the impact weather may have on ratings. One thing that will not be questioned once the skies clear is the attention the tournament receives from its broadcast partners. NBC has 53 cameras on site, up from a norm of 30 for regular PGA Tour events, while ESPN will carry 87 hours of coverage either on TV or online. Viewers may notice a drop in hospitality areas around the course -- the USGA has sold about 50 hospitality tents, down from around 75 in recent years. However, in part two of SBJ/SBD’s golf roundtable, industry experts defend sponsor spending in the sport.

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