If you're wondering what channel is the US Open on Thursday, the answer for 2025 is primarily ESPN and ESPN2. These networks hold exclusive broadcast rights for the US Open tennis tournament in the United States, offering comprehensive live coverage of both men's and women's matches throughout the week, including Thursday. Depending on the match schedule and round progression, select games may also air on ABC or be available via streaming platforms such as the ESPN app, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV. For fans searching for where to watch the US Open Thursday matches, tuning into ESPN during daytime and primetime hours ensures access to top-tier tennis action from Arthur Ashe Stadium and other courts at Flushing Meadows.
Quick Overview: Where to Watch the US Open on Thursday
The US Open, one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, takes place annually in late August and early September in New York City. During the middle weeks of the tournament—especially during the second week when quarterfinals begin—Thursday becomes a pivotal day for high-stakes matchups. The question what channel is the US Open on Thursday is commonly asked by fans eager to catch key singles and doubles matches. As of 2025, ESPN remains the primary broadcaster, carrying live events across its main network and secondary channels.
In addition to traditional cable, viewers can stream every match through authenticated services linked to their pay-TV subscriptions. This includes logging into the ESPN app or visiting ESPN.com/watch with valid credentials. Cord-cutters have several alternatives, including live TV streaming packages that include ESPN, making it easier than ever to follow the action regardless of location within the U.S.
Typical Broadcast Schedule for Thursday Matches
On Thursdays during the US Open, especially in the second week, the tournament features some of the most anticipated matches of the year. In 2025, the second Thursday (September 5th) will host the men’s and women’s singles quarterfinals, meaning extended coverage is expected. Here’s a breakdown of the typical broadcast flow:
| Time Slot | Network | Expected Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM ET | ESPN / ESPN2 | Live afternoon sessions featuring quarterfinal matches |
| 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM ET | ESPN | Primetime night session with top-ranked players |
| Late Night (after 11 PM) | ESPNEWS or replay on ESPN+ | Extended matches or delayed finishes |
| Occasional Overflows | ABC (select years) | National broadcast of marquee matches |
This structured programming allows fans to plan viewing times around work or school schedules. It's important to note that while ESPN leads coverage, the exact distribution between ESPN and ESPN2 depends on concurrent matches and production decisions made closer to airtime.
Understanding the US Open Media Rights and Broadcasting Strategy
To fully understand what channel is the US Open on Thursday, it helps to examine the broader media rights landscape. Since 2015, ESPN has held exclusive domestic television rights to the US Open under a long-term agreement with the United States Tennis Association (USTA). This deal replaced previous arrangements with CBS and USA Network, centralizing all English-language coverage under ESPN’s umbrella.
This exclusivity means no other major U.S. network broadcasts live matches, although highlights and recaps appear on sports news programs like SportsCenter and digital platforms. Spanish-language coverage is handled separately by ESPN Deportes, which simulcasts select matches for bilingual audiences.
Why ESPN Dominates US Open Coverage
There are several strategic reasons why ESPN is the go-to destination for tennis fans asking what channel is the US Open on Thursday:
- Nationwide Reach: ESPN is available in over 90 million American households, ensuring broad accessibility.
- Digital Integration: With the ESPN app and website, fans can stream matches live even without a traditional cable subscription—if they subscribe to a supported live TV service.
- Expert Commentary: ESPN employs seasoned tennis analysts and former pros like Patrick McEnroe, Rennae Stubbs, and Chris Fowler, enhancing viewer engagement.
- Multi-Court Coverage: Through its digital platform ESPN+, fans can watch multiple courts simultaneously using the “Match Central” feature, giving deeper insight beyond just center court.
These advantages make ESPN not only the official home of the US Open but also the most reliable source for real-time updates, replays, and expert analysis.
Streaming Options for Watching the US Open on Thursday
For those who prefer online viewing, knowing what channel is the US Open on Thursday extends beyond linear TV. Several streaming platforms carry ESPN as part of their channel lineup, enabling flexible access:
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, and ESPN Deportes; allows cloud DVR storage.
- YouTube TV: Offers full access to ESPN networks with unlimited DVR capacity.
- FuboTV: Sports-focused streaming service with robust tennis coverage and multi-view options.
- AT&T TV (now DirecTV Stream): Provides various tiers that include ESPN and regional sports networks.
- ESPN App: Free to download, but requires login with a participating pay-TV provider or eligible streaming subscription.
Additionally, ESPN+ subscribers gain access to supplemental content, including pre-tournament previews, player interviews, and archived matches. However, live main-draw matches are not streamed exclusively on ESPN+; they require access to the full ESPN network via one of the above methods.
International Viewers: What Channel Is the US Open on Thursday Abroad?
Fans outside the U.S. face different broadcasting arrangements. While this article focuses on American viewership, it’s worth noting that international audiences should check local providers:
- United Kingdom: Amazon Prime Video holds exclusive rights.
- Australia: Nine Network and Stan Sport.
- Canada: TSN and RDS.
- India: Sony Sports Network.
Geo-restrictions apply, so U.S.-based streaming may require a VPN for overseas viewers—and vice versa.
How the Tournament Structure Affects Thursday Coverage
The significance of Thursday in the US Open calendar varies depending on the week. During the first week (August 26–31 in 2025), Thursday typically falls in the third or fourth round, meaning many early-round matches conclude and seedings start narrowing. By contrast, the second Thursday (September 4–5) marks the beginning of the quarterfinal stage—the penultimate step before semifinals and finals.
In 2025, the men’s and women’s singles quarterfinals are scheduled for Thursday, September 5, making it one of the most intense days of the tournament. Expect wall-to-wall coverage starting mid-morning and continuing into the night. Networks often rotate camera focus based on match progress, fan interest, and player popularity (e.g., if a top American athlete is competing).
Alternate Viewing: Radio, Social Media, and Live Blogs
Even if you can’t watch live TV, there are alternative ways to stay updated on Thursday’s matches:
- US Open Radio: Available via SiriusXM Channel 208, offering play-by-play commentary.
- Official US Open App: Provides live scoring, point-by-point updates, and video highlights.
- Social Media: Follow @USOpen on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook for real-time clips and announcements.
- Live Blogs: Websites like ESPN.com, Tennis.com, and The Athletic offer minute-by-minute text commentary.
Practical Tips for Planning Your US Open Thursday Viewing
To ensure you don’t miss any crucial moments when asking what channel is the US Open on Thursday, consider these actionable steps:
- Check the Official Schedule Weekly: Match times can shift due to weather delays or extended games. Visit usopen.org for daily updates.
- Set Reminders: Use your smart TV, phone calendar, or streaming service alerts to get notified before matches begin.
- Verify Your Streaming Access: Test the ESPN app or your live TV platform a day in advance to avoid login issues.
- Consider Time Zones: All listed times are Eastern Time (ET); adjust accordingly if you’re in Central, Mountain, or Pacific zones.
- Have Backup Devices Ready: If your primary screen fails, switch to a tablet, laptop, or mobile device with the ESPN app.
Also, keep in mind that weekend and holiday-like demand (such as Labor Day weekend, which overlaps with the final days of the US Open) can increase congestion on streaming servers. Connecting via Wi-Fi rather than cellular data improves stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What channel is the US Open on Thursday night?
Thursday night matches are typically broadcast on ESPN, especially during prime time (7:00 PM ET onward). If multiple matches run late, overflow coverage may appear on ESPN2 or ESPNEWS.
Can I watch the US Open on Thursday for free?
Not entirely. While limited clips and highlights are free on ESPN.com or the US Open app, full live matches require authentication through a paid TV provider or a subscription to a live TV streaming service that includes ESPN.
Is the US Open on ABC on Thursday?
Rarely. While ABC has aired weekend finals in past years, weekday coverage—including Thursdays—is almost always on ESPN networks. Any ABC broadcasts would be announced well in advance.
Does ESPN+ show live US Open matches on Thursday?
No. ESPN+ does not carry live main-draw matches. It offers supplementary content, documentaries, and out-of-court programming, but live tennis requires access to the main ESPN channels via cable or streaming.
What time does the US Open start on Thursday?
Day sessions usually begin at 11:00 AM ET, with night sessions starting at 7:00 PM ET. Exact start times depend on the round and court assignment, so checking the daily schedule on usopen.org is recommended.
浙公网安备
33010002000092号
浙B2-20120091-4