Where to Watch the US Open on TV in 2026 and Beyond
The US Open is televised in the United States primarily on ESPN and the ESPN App, with early rounds also on ABC and local over-the-air broadcast in some markets through network O&Os or affiliates. Live streaming is available on ESPN+, and ESPN provides on-demand coverage across platforms including Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV Stream. Exact channel numbers vary by cable provider and region, so it is best to check your provider’s guide or the network websites close to the tournament dates.
Evergreen Viewing Landscape for the US Open
Because tournament schedules shift slightly each year, thinking in terms of providers and packages is more durable than tracking a single channel number. The core pattern holds: ESPN cable networks carry the majority of live action, while ABC handles prime-time marquee sessions in some windows. Streaming tiers that include ESPN give reliable access, and free ad-supported options appear via broadcast TV in select areas.
- Primary live TV homes: ESPN / ESPN2
- Over-the-air partner: ABC (select matches)
- Streaming homes: ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV
- On-demand availability: ESPN app and website
US Open TV and Streaming Options at a Glance
| Provider | Channel (Typical) | Live Streaming | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cable (Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum) | ESPN / ESPN2 (channel varies) | Via provider app or ESPN+ add-on | Check local lineup for channel number |
| Streaming (Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV) | Included with plan | In-app and ESPN+ where applicable | All ESPN channels typically included |
| DirecTV Stream | Local and ESPN feeds | Through service app | Regional blackouts may apply |
| Over the Air (ABC affiliate) | Broadcast signal | N/A | Limited to select matches and markets |
How to Find the Right Channel With Your Provider
Because channel numbers differ by region and package, the fastest method is to use your provider’s channel lookup tool or call customer support. You can also visit ESPN Press Center and ABC affiliate lists for market-by-market details. If you are considering a new streaming service, verify that live ESPN feeds are included; nearly all major live TV tiers carry them, but pricing and extra sports premiums vary.
Streaming on Mobile, TV Devices, and Connected TV
The official ESPN app is the primary streaming outlet, and it is accessible on phones, tablets, streaming sticks, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. To watch, authenticate through your TV provider or add ESPN+ where applicable. In some cases, a separate ESPN+ subscription is required for live streaming of certain events not carried on the main ESPN channels, depending on annual rights deals and blackout restrictions.
When to Watch: Typical US Open Daily Windows
Though exact start times vary by year and by network, main-stay coverage usually begins in the midmorning and extends into the night for finals. Early-round windows often include morning and early afternoon blocks on ESPN and ABC, while prime night sessions air on ESPN in primetime. Plan around these windows and use on-demand playback when live watching is not feasible.
- Early rounds: ESPN and ABC in daytime and early evening
- Later rounds and finals: ESPN and ESPN2 in primetime and late night
- On-demand replays: Available same-day and delayed on ESPN platforms
Beyond Pay TV: Free and Low-Cost Alternatives
In select markets, an over-the-air ABC affiliate may broadcast key matches without a cable subscription, subject to local syndication rights and blackout rules. Streaming services with live TV provide a blend of broadcast and cable channels; costs are higher than ad-only apps but lower than traditional cable. Weigh blackout risk, channel fidelity, and add-on costs when choosing between an ESPN+ add-on to a streaming tier versus a standalone subscription.