The US Open is currently being broadcast on ESPN and ESPN2 in the United States, with select matches also airing on ABC. If you're asking what channel is the US Open on now, the answer depends on the time of day and match significance—primetime games typically air on ESPN, while weekend finals may be featured on ABC. For viewers looking to stream live coverage, ESPN+, the network’s official streaming platform, offers comprehensive access to all courts, including matches not shown on linear television. This multi-platform approach ensures fans can follow every serve, volley, and championship moment no matter their preferred viewing method.
Quick Summary: Where to Watch the US Open Today
If you’re searching for what channel is the US Open on now, the primary answer remains consistent throughout the tournament: ESPN holds exclusive U.S. broadcast rights to the US Open. The network airs daily coverage across ESPN, ESPN2, and occasionally ABC for marquee matchups such as semifinals and finals. Matches begin early in the day, often starting around 11 a.m. ET, with afternoon and evening sessions extending into primetime.
In addition to traditional cable, fans can access every match through digital platforms like ESPN.com, the ESPN app, and ESPN+. These services require authentication with a participating pay-TV provider or a standalone subscription to ESPN+. With increasing demand for mobile and on-demand content, more viewers are turning to these streaming options to catch live action, replays, and expert commentary without being tied to a television schedule.
Understanding the US Open Broadcast Rights
Exclusive Coverage by ESPN
Since 2015, ESPN has held exclusive domestic television rights to the US Open, ending decades of shared coverage that previously included CBS and USA Network. This shift centralized all English-language broadcasts under one network, simplifying the viewer experience. As a result, when someone asks what channel is the US Open on now, the answer is almost always an ESPN-affiliated platform.
This exclusivity agreement covers all events during the two-week tournament—including men’s and women’s singles and doubles, mixed doubles, junior competitions, and wheelchair tennis. While only a few main-court matches appear on ESPN or ESPN2 at any given time, ESPN+ provides “live look-in” capabilities, allowing subscribers to switch between multiple simultaneous matches from Arthur Ashe Stadium, Louis Armstrong Stadium, and Grandstand.
Role of ABC in Weekend Finals
While most of the tournament unfolds on ESPN networks, select high-profile matches—particularly the men’s and women’s singles finals—are broadcast on ABC, Disney’s flagship over-the-air network. This strategic move allows broader accessibility, especially for households without cable subscriptions. Weekend semifinals and finals typically start in the afternoon (around 4 p.m. ET for men’s final, noon ET for women’s), making them ideal for national audiences.
The inclusion of ABC underscores the US Open’s status as one of the most-watched sporting events in the U.S., rivaling major championships in golf, basketball, and football. It also reflects ESPN’s parent company, The Walt Disney Company’s, effort to maximize viewership across its portfolio of networks.
Streaming Options: How to Watch the US Open Online
Using ESPN+ for Full-Court Access
For fans who want complete control over their viewing experience, ESPN+ is the best option. Subscribers gain access to:
- Live streams of all 17 courts
- On-demand replays of completed matches
- Exclusive pre- and post-match analysis
- Spanish-language commentary options
- Multi-view functionality (on supported devices)
A subscription to ESPN+ costs $10.99 per month or $109.99 annually and can be bundled with Disney+ and Hulu for additional savings. Unlike linear TV channels, which rotate coverage based on match excitement and player popularity, ESPN+ delivers uninterrupted access to every point played.
Alternative Ways to Stream
Beyond ESPN+, several third-party platforms carry the US Open if you don’t have a traditional cable package:
- fuboTV: Offers live ESPN channels and cloud DVR; popular among sports fans.
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, and the ability to stream via the ESPN app.
- YouTube TV: Carries all ESPN networks and ABC in most markets.
- Sling TV (Orange plan): Includes ESPN but not ABC; best for weekday matches.
All of these services offer free trials (typically 7 days), enabling temporary access for those who only want to watch during the tournament. However, users must verify local ABC availability, as over-the-air broadcasts may vary by region.
| Platform | Channels Included | Streaming US Open? | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESPN App / ESPN.com | ESPN, ESPN2 | Yes (login required) | Free with TV provider |
| ESPN+ | All courts (direct stream) | Yes (full coverage) | $10.99 |
| fuboTV | ESPN, ESPN2, ABC* | Yes | $75+ |
| Hulu + Live TV | ESPN, ESPN2, ABC | Yes | $76.99 |
| YouTube TV | ESPN, ESPN2, ABC | Yes | $72.99 |
| Sling Orange | ESPN | Limited (no ABC) | $40 |
International Viewing Options
Fans outside the United States will need different resources to answer what channel is the US Open on now in their region. Broadcasting rights are managed locally:
- United Kingdom: Amazon Prime Video (exclusive since 2022)
- Canada: TSN and RDS (French)
- Australia: Nine Network and Stan Sport
- India: Sony Sports Network and SonyLIV
- France: France Télévisions and Eurosport
Viewers traveling abroad or using virtual private networks (VPNs) should note that geo-restrictions may prevent access to ESPN’s streams. Conversely, international audiences using regional broadcasters may miss certain matches unless they subscribe to premium tiers.
Typical Daily Broadcast Schedule
Day vs. Night Sessions
The US Open divides play into two main sessions:
- Day Session: Begins at 11 a.m. ET, featuring matches on outer courts and one main stadium (alternating between Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong).
- Night Session: Starts at 7 p.m. ET, usually headlined by top-ranked players or dramatic matchups.
During the first week, daytime coverage rotates across ESPN and ESPN2, while night sessions are reserved for ESPN. In the second week, especially during quarterfinals and beyond, ABC takes over weekend afternoons, while ESPN maintains evening coverage.
Weekday vs. Weekend Coverage
Weekdays feature continuous coverage from morning until late evening, with frequent updates on player progress and injury reports. Weekends increase production value, adding studio shows like US Open Countdown and Inside Tennis, along with enhanced graphics and slow-motion replays.
Finals weekend is treated like a major sporting event, with ABC broadcasting the women’s final on Saturday and the men’s final on Sunday—both during daytime hours to maximize family viewership.
How to Stay Updated: Real-Time Information Tools
To ensure you never miss a match, consider these tools:
- Download the Official US Open App: Provides real-time scores, court schedules, and push notifications when your favorite player takes the court.
- Follow @USOpen on Social Media: Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook provide instant updates about broadcast changes or rain delays.
- Check the ESPN Live Schedule Page: Lists current and upcoming programs across all ESPN networks.
- Set Reminders on Smart Devices: Use Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri to say: “Remind me when the US Open starts today.”
Common Questions About Watching the US Open
Why isn’t the US Open on CBS anymore?
CBS aired the US Open for nearly 50 years before ESPN took over exclusive rights in 2015. The transition was part of a larger media rights deal valued at over $800 million. ESPN now controls all aspects of domestic broadcast production, offering deeper integration with digital platforms and personalized viewing experiences.
Can I watch the US Open for free?
Limited free options exist. You can watch select matches on ABC with an antenna. Additionally, streaming services like fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV offer 7-day free trials, allowing full access during the opening days of the tournament. Otherwise, some highlights and recaps are available on ESPN’s YouTube channel and the US Open’s official site.
Is there a difference between ESPN and ESPN+ coverage?
Yes. ESPN (on TV) shows curated matches deemed most competitive or star-driven. ESPN+ offers comprehensive coverage, including every match from every court, even those not televised nationally. Serious fans seeking complete immersion should subscribe to ESPN+.
Final Tips for Maximizing Your Viewing Experience
Knowing what channel is the US Open on now is just the beginning. To get the most out of the tournament:
- Plan ahead using the official US Open schedule.
- Subscribe to ESPN+ if you want full access without commercial interruptions.
- Use picture-in-picture features on smart TVs to monitor multiple matches.
- Join online fan communities (like Reddit’s r/tennis) for live discussion and insights.
- Be aware that rain delays or extended matches can alter broadcast plans last-minute.
The US Open remains one of the most exciting events in global sports, combining elite athleticism with electric crowd energy. Whether you’re tuning in from home or following live scores on your phone, understanding where and how to watch ensures you stay connected to every pivotal moment—from baseline rallies to championship points.
Frequently Asked Questions
What channel is the US Open on right now?
Right now, the US Open is airing on ESPN or ESPN2. Check your local listings or the ESPN live schedule online for real-time updates.
Is the US Open on ABC today?
The US Open is sometimes on ABC, particularly on weekends. The women’s final is typically on Saturday and the men’s final on Sunday, both in the afternoon (ET).
How can I stream the US Open for free?
You can stream it free during trial periods on Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, or fuboTV. Alternatively, use an antenna to watch ABC’s weekend broadcasts at no cost.
Does ESPN+ show every US Open match?
Yes, ESPN+ provides live and on-demand coverage of every single match from all courts during the US Open.
Are US Open matches available on replay?
Yes, full match replays are available on ESPN+ and the ESPN app shortly after completion, allowing fans to watch at their convenience.
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