PGA Tour Experiences Ratings Rebound In 2025

Rory McIlroy’s impressive performance in 2025, including two wins already, has significantly contributed to the resurgence of the PGA Tour's television ratings, reversing a troubling trend from the previous year. As golf gears up for its high season, the PGA Tour is enjoying a notable ratings rebound, according to various reports, following a challenging 2024.

Recent data show that the PGA Tour has posted a remarkable 15 percent year-over-year jump in Nielsen’s “Big Data” panel, accompanied by more modest increases in traditional Nielsen ratings. This trend counters the severe 15 percent drop faced by the Tour's broadcasting partners, NBC and CBS, in 2024, allowing golf's week-to-week TV audience to align more favorably with broader cable television trends.

Interestingly, LIV Golf, which has taken a sensational spot in the golf news cycle, seems to suffer in comparison, routinely failing to attract more than 50,000 average viewers during its broadcasts. This week in Singapore, the PGA Tour attracted an audience that was 100 times larger than LIV's showing, showcasing the disparity between the two tours.

The PGA Tour's optimism is further amplified by the Fan Forward program, a new initiative seeking fan input through over 50,000 survey responses. This has helped the Tour recalibrate and better cater to its core audience.

So, what’s driving this rebound? Let’s break down the theories surrounding this notable upswing in viewership.

Theory #1: Improved Golf on TV

This theory suggests the ratings are up simply because golf is more entertaining in 2025. Rory McIlroy's victories, the favorable weather during key tournaments, and engaging final rounds have all contributed to a more appealing viewing experience. Moreover, the changes made to the Tour’s format and scheduling in the past two years have made tournaments easier to follow and more exciting to watch, establishing a must-see element for fans.

Theory #2: The PGA Tour Wants You to Think It’s Back

Theory #3: Enhanced Broadcast Quality

Network broadcasters, such as CBS and NBC, argue that their improvements in coverage have revitalized audience interest. Continuity in presenting teams, innovative production techniques, and strategic scheduling of marquee matchups have positively impacted ratings. However, skepticism remains regarding whether these efforts can fully redeem the broadcasts, especially given complaints on key moments missing coverage.

Theory #4: The End of Tour Wars

The final theory posits that the ratings increase for the PGA Tour correlates with the perceived decline of LIV Golf’s influence. With many star players returning or remaining loyal to the PGA, the consolidation around one primary tour has likely made it easier for fans to invest their viewing energies there.

Reflecting on these theories, it seems the surge in ratings is likely a combination of improved content quality, positive viewer sentiment, and perhaps even a softer landscape for competition with LIV. The disinterest in some segments of golf have transformed into renewed interest among the traditionalist fanbase.

As golf heads into its peak season, all eyes are on the consistency of these ratings. Enthusiasts worry that this upward trend might not be sustainable, especially if LIV Golf manages to make headway in capturing viewership.

However, for now, the golf community is fortunate to ride this wave of optimism. Fans eager to witness thrilling tournaments are likely to remain engaged—at least until the next big event unfolds. Whether this positive momentum can be maintained in the face of changing dynamics remains to be seen, but golfers and organizers will undoubtedly look to build on this momentum as the calendar moves deeper into 2025.