The US Open is one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year, drawing millions of tennis fans from around the world. As the final Grand Slam tournament of the season, it delivers high-stakes matches, dramatic storylines, and unforgettable moments on the hard courts of New York. For viewers, knowing exactly where and how to watch the action—whether on traditional television or through streaming platforms—is essential to catching every serve, rally, and championship point.
TLDR: The US Open is primarily broadcast in the United States on ESPN networks, with full live streaming available via ESPN+, the ESPN app, and select live TV streaming services. International viewers can watch through regional broadcasters such as Eurosport, Sky Sports, or local sports networks. Cord-cutters have multiple streaming options, including Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and fuboTV. Availability and coverage may vary by country, so checking local listings is recommended.
How to Watch the US Open on TV (United States)
In the United States, the exclusive broadcaster of the US Open is ESPN. This means all tournament matches—from first-round qualifiers to the men’s and women’s finals—are shown across ESPN’s family of networks.
- ESPN: Primary coverage, including key daytime and primetime matches.
- ESPN2: Additional live match coverage.
- ABC: Select weekend matches, often including the finals.
Coverage typically spans two full weeks, beginning in late August and concluding in early September. ESPN delivers extensive daily programming, often exceeding 12 hours per day, with studio analysis, player interviews, and highlight recaps.
Viewers with a traditional cable or satellite subscription that includes ESPN can watch the tournament live without any additional fees.
Streaming the US Open in the United States
For cord-cutters and digital viewers, streaming options are plentiful. ESPN ensures comprehensive digital coverage via its dedicated streaming platforms.
1. ESPN+
ESPN+ offers extensive live coverage, including:
- Early-round matches not broadcast on TV
- Multiple court feeds
- Exclusive matches
- On-demand replays
An ESPN+ subscription is required and is available as a standalone service or as part of the Disney Bundle (which includes Disney+ and Hulu).
2. ESPN App
The ESPN app allows cable subscribers to stream matches live by logging in with their TV provider credentials. This is a convenient option for viewers who want to watch on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, or streaming devices.
3. Live TV Streaming Services
Several live TV streaming platforms carry ESPN and ABC, making them viable choices for watching the US Open without cable.
| Service | ESPN Included | ABC Included | Free Trial | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hulu + Live TV | Yes | Yes (in most markets) | Occasionally | Bundle with Disney+ |
| YouTube TV | Yes | Yes | Yes (limited time) | Unlimited DVR |
| Sling TV | Yes (Orange plan) | Limited markets | Rare promotions | Lower cost option |
| fuboTV | Yes | Yes (in most markets) | Yes | Sports-focused coverage |
Each platform offers apps for smart TVs, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and gaming consoles, ensuring flexibility in how viewers tune in.
International Broadcast Options
The US Open enjoys global coverage, with broadcasting rights varying by region. Below are some of the primary international broadcasters:
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports
- Europe (multiple countries): Eurosport
- Canada: TSN and RDS
- Australia: Channel Nine and Stan Sport
- India: Sony Sports Network
Many of these broadcasters also provide streaming options through their proprietary apps or affiliated streaming platforms.
Viewers outside the United States should check the official US Open website or local sports listings for region-specific details.
Watching the US Open on Mobile Devices
Fans who want to watch on the go have several mobile-friendly options.
- ESPN App: Live streaming with TV provider login.
- ESPN+ App: Dedicated subscriber access.
- Streaming Service Apps: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, and fuboTV apps available for iOS and Android.
Most apps support live pause, rewind, and DVR functionality, allowing viewers to catch up on missed moments.
Can You Watch the US Open for Free?
While there is no completely free, official broadcast of the entire US Open in the US, there are limited ways to reduce costs:
- Free trials from streaming services (when available)
- Promotional sign-up offers
- Watching select matches broadcast on ABC with an over-the-air antenna
Internationally, some countries may offer limited free-to-air coverage, particularly for finals or marquee matches.
On-Demand Replays and Highlights
Not everyone can watch matches live due to time zone differences or work schedules. Fortunately, replays and highlights are widely available:
- ESPN+: Full match replays
- US Open Official Website: Match highlights and key points
- YouTube (official channels): Condensed match highlights
This makes it easy to stay updated even if watching live isn’t possible.
Streaming Quality and Viewing Tips
To ensure the best viewing experience, consider the following:
- Internet Speed: At least 10–25 Mbps recommended for HD streaming.
- Device Compatibility: Confirm your streaming service supports your device.
- DVR Features: Use cloud DVR to record key matches.
- Multiple Court Feeds: ESPN+ especially excels in offering simultaneous court coverage.
Prime-time matches often draw heavy demand, so a stable and fast connection is crucial.
Key Dates and Scheduling
The US Open typically runs for two weeks, beginning on the last Monday of August and ending in early September. The tournament includes:
- Week 1: Early rounds with matches throughout the day and night.
- Middle Weekend: Round of 16 and quarterfinals.
- Final Weekend: Women’s and men’s finals.
Night sessions are particularly popular and often feature top-ranked players in marquee matchups.
Choosing the Right Option for You
The best way to watch the US Open depends largely on personal viewing habits:
- Casual viewers may prefer ABC broadcasts or highlight packages.
- Dedicated fans benefit from ESPN+ for full multi-court access.
- Households replacing cable may find YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV ideal.
- International fans should prioritize official regional broadcasters to ensure reliable access.
With a range of TV and streaming options, fans have more flexibility than ever before to enjoy the tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What channel is the US Open on in the US?
The US Open is broadcast primarily on ESPN and ESPN2, with select matches airing on ABC.
2. Can I watch the US Open without cable?
Yes. You can stream the tournament via ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV.
3. Does ESPN+ show every match?
ESPN+ offers extensive multi-court coverage, including many matches not shown on traditional TV broadcasts.
4. Is the US Open available internationally?
Yes. Broadcasters such as Sky Sports, Eurosport, TSN, and others provide regional coverage worldwide.
5. Can I watch match replays?
Yes. ESPN+ and other platforms offer on-demand replays, and official highlight clips are available online.
6. Are the US Open finals on free TV?
In the United States, select finals matches may air on ABC, which can be accessed with an over-the-air antenna.
7. When does the US Open usually take place?
The tournament typically runs from late August through early September each year.
Whether watching from home, on a mobile device, or internationally, tennis fans have numerous ways to follow every thrilling moment of the US Open. By choosing the right combination of TV channels and streaming services, viewers can ensure they never miss a single serve.