The PGA Tour has agreed to new deals with network television
for a reported $850 million over four years.
The new packages with ABC, CBS, NBC, ESPN, USA and The Golf
Channel run from 2003 until 2006 and represent about a 45 percent increase from
the current contracts, according to industry sources.
"The strong interest in PGA Tour programming from our television
partners was very gratifying," said commissioner Tim Finchem in a statement released
by the PGA Tour. "The very positive image of our sport, coupled with the strong
growth in fan interest in Tour players and competitions, provided an excellent
framework for mutually beneficial discussions."
ABC, CBS and NBC have all retained significant packages, although
each network has lost or gained different tournaments. ESPN and USA Network will
broadcast all early-round coverage in a two-network arrangement, while The Golf
Channel will be the exclusive home for the Buy.com Tour.
ABC will average about 18 events per year and will add the
Nissan Open (Los Angeles) to its schedule, as well as the Phoenix Open in 2004.
It will also remain the home for three of the World Golf Championships.
CBS will average about 17 events each year and will add the
St. Jude Classic (Memphis) and Compaq Classic (New Orleans) to its roster in 2004.
It will also retain the WGC-NEC Invitational.
NBC, which already has the USGA package, will average about
five PGA Tour events per year. The network will continue its tradition of coverage
of the "Florida Swing," which includes The Players Championship, in March.
There had been talk of moving The Players Championship, the
unofficial "Fifth Major," from its slot in March to May, which would have given
the sport a marquee tournament every month from April through August.
