ESPN’s coverage of the early rounds of The Masters tournament achieved record-breaking viewership, drawing in an average of 3.4 million viewers.
According to Nielsen Fast National data, this figure marked the highest two-day average since 2018, pointing to a significant rise in golf fandom.
Thursday’s opening-round coverage averaged 3.2 million viewers, while 3.6 million viewers tuned in for the coverage on Friday.
ESPN sees highest The Masters viewership since 2018 https://t.co/XdyHXAadx3 pic.twitter.com/Jp4eDMoXNV
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 15, 2024
This upswing in viewership 69% higher than the second-round coverage in 2023. Interestingly, Friday’s coverage hit an incredible peak, reaching close to 3.9 million viewers.
This can largely be attributed to the thrilling, unexpected twists and turns that played out during the day’s action.
One such moment of high drama came when former Masters winner, Zach Johnson, made headlines for his fiery response to some fans’ sarcastic cheer after a triple-bogey on the 12th hole.
Johnson told the fans to “F*** off.”
Zach Johnson voices his displeasure after Masters patrons cheer on his triple bogey at 12. ⛳️🤬 #themasters pic.twitter.com/vpNvVneUpy
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 12, 2024
His blunt outburst added an unexpected element of controversy to the tournament. Golf sensation, Scottie Scheffler, added to the excitement by securing his second green jacket in this year’s tournament.
Scheffler’s accomplishment provided a feel-good narrative that undoubtedly contributed to the burgeoning viewership.
The coverage of the final two rounds by CBS saw its fair share of drama. However, it was not just the golf action that was generating headlines.
Veteran announcer Verne Lundquist, who was covering his 40th and ultimate Masters, was commemorated for his significant contributions.
Broadcast partner Jim Nantz’s heartfelt tribute to him was one of the poignant moments in the broadcast, which in turn may have captivated more viewers.
As the final group departed the 16th hole, Nantz expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Lundquist for the irreplaceable contribution he had made to the sport’s broadcast history.
“Thanks for the memories. Your voice has been a beautiful instrument. Thank you for a wonderful soundtrack for all of our lives.”
Verne, thank you for the memories. pic.twitter.com/pUB5nTPWk9
— Golf on CBS ⛳ (@GolfonCBS) April 14, 2024
“Thank you so much Jim. It’s my honor, my privilege,” Lundquist replied.
