Overview: Which Channel Shows the US Open
The US Open tennis airs primarily on ESPN and ESPN2 in the United States, with live streams on ESPN+ and the ESPN app. NBC holds limited over-the-air highlights, while streaming TV services including YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream carry ESPN. International viewers may watch on Amazon Prime Video in the UK, Sky Sports and BBC in the UK and Ireland in selected years, or DAZN in selected European markets depending on regional rights. Below is a quick reference followed by a detailed breakdown of channels, streaming options, and how to choose the best setup for your needs.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Primary U.S. TV Channels | ESPN and ESPN2 | Rights holder (ESPN/Disney) |
| U.S. Streaming Home | ESPN+ (live streams and on-demand) | Rights holder (Disney) |
| Live TV Services Carrying ESPN | YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream | Service lineups |
| International Broadcasters (examples) | Sky Sports (UK/Ireland), BBC (UK highlights), Amazon Prime Video (UK), DAZN (selected Europe) | Broadcaster announcements |
| 2025 Schedule Window | Late August to early September | US Open annual calendar |
U.S. Television and Streaming Details
In the United States, the US Open remains on ESPN and ESPN2, a long-standing arrangement that offers live and delayed coverage across multiple days and sessions. ESPN+ is the exclusive digital home for live streams of all sessions, including courtside coverage not always shown on TV. If you subscribe to a live TV streaming service such as YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or DirecTV Stream, you already have access to ESPN without adding a separate ESPN+ subscription, though adding ESPN+ can provide on-demand content and mobile viewing flexibility. Cable subscribers with an ESPN add-on continue to receive linear coverage, but cord-cutters can maintain access by pairing a streaming service with an ESPN+ subscription. The combination of ESPN channels for live events and ESPN+ for replays and extended coverage makes the U.S. viewing landscape straightforward and robust.
Live TV Streaming Lineups That Include ESPN
- YouTube TV: Includes ESPN and ESPN2; adds up to 50 hours of cloud DVR with unlimited storage.
- Hulu + Live TV: Carries ESPN and ESPN2; offers cloud DVR and customizable profiles.
- DirecTV Stream: Provides ESPN and ESPN2; tiered plans with add-ons for premium content.
- FuboTV: Offers ESPN and ESPN2 with a strong sports-focused package.
International Viewing Options
Broadcast rights vary by country, so availability can change from year to year. In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports historically holds the main pay-TV rights, while the BBC may show highlights and selected live matches depending on negotiations. In Australia, the Nine Network and streaming service Stan have been key broadcasters. In Canada, coverage typically appears on TSN and RDS. In India, Sony Pictures Networks has often aired the event. Viewers in parts of Europe may find matches on DAZN or on free-to-air channels when rights agreements allow. Because these arrangements are renegotiated periodically, it is best to check local listings in the weeks leading up of the tournament to confirm where to watch each match in your region.
How to Choose the Best Option for You
Start by confirming whether you primarily watch on TV or prefer streaming on mobile, tablet, or smart TV. If you already subscribe to a live TV streaming service, verify that ESPN is included in your plan and consider adding ESPN+ for on-demand content and extra streams. Cord-cutters without live TV can rely on streaming TV services with add-on sports packs, or use a standalone ESPN+ subscription together with an over-the-top service to access linear ESPN channels. International viewers should check official broadcaster announcements and local listings for the most accurate information. Planning ahead—checking schedules, setting reminders, and ensuring your subscriptions and devices are ready—helps you avoid missing key matches and makes the entire tournament more convenient to follow.
Schedule and Match Windows
The US Open typically runs from late August to early September, with main-drawn matches starting in the second half of August and finals in early September. Session times vary by day, with early-round matches usually beginning in the morning and evening sessions, and prime-time matches often scheduled in the evenings Eastern Time. Quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals carry the most prominent time slots, so if your service lineup changes near the event, prioritize plans that guarantee ESPN access during these high-profile days. Knowing the general timeline also helps you manage expectations for live streaming bandwidth and device battery life, especially when watching on mobile outside the home.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Viewing Experience
- Confirm your streaming service carries ESPN in your area before the tournament starts.
- Add ESPN+ if you want live streams on phones and tablets and access to on-demand replays.
- Test devices and login credentials a week before the first match to avoid last-minute issues.
- Set calendar reminders for key sessions, especially finals and marquee matchups.
- Monitor data usage if streaming on mobile; HD video can consume 3–4 GB per hour.
Summary
In the United States, the primary TV channels for the US Open are ESPN and ESPN2, supported by live streams on ESPN+ and most major live TV streaming services. International viewers should verify local rights, as broadcasters such as Sky Sports, BBC, TSN, and others may carry matches depending on the region. By confirming your subscriptions, checking schedules, and testing your setup in advance, you can focus on the matches themselves rather than the logistics of how to watch. This approach ensures consistent access to every session, from early rounds through the men’s and women’s finals.