Sky Sports have come under fire for their coverage of the Masters but pundit Paul McGinley has hit back at the critics as Rory McIlroy chases a first green jacket at Augusta
Former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley has defended Sky Sports following criticism of the network’s Masters coverage. McGinley is a long-time member of Sky’s golf team and is at Augusta for the first major of the year.
Sky, like all channels, must adhere to strict broadcasting rules at the Masters. During the afternoon UK time, only selected featured groups can be televised until full live coverage can begin at around 7.30pm, once the final group of the day have teed off.
The Augusta National has a number of other seemingly antiquated rules, including a ban on mobile phones. Organisers maintain the rules to preserve the tournament’s prestige and unique feel.
While the rules regarding TV coverage have long frustrated many golf fans, Sky has also been criticised.
Gripes about excessive ad breaks, too much studio analysis and an alleged preoccupation with Rory McIlroy’s chase for the elusive Green Jacket have been aired.
One disgruntled viewer said: “To many ads and the repetitive nature of the commentators repeating same stats and the obsession with Rory winning needs to stop.”
Another added: “How much of the Sky Sports Masters coverage do we think is actually watching players hit shots? I’m guessing 35% max.”
However, McGinley has taken to social media to clarify that Sky is airing the maximum coverage allowed from Augusta.
On X, he posted: “For those wondering at home we have maximised out all the coverage we are entitled to from Augusta National with more live hours than ever before @SkySportsGolf.”
Although some didn’t accept McGinley’s stance, others were satisfied with the coverage. One viewer noted: “I remember when you only could see the back nine on Sunday and maybe whole 78 or nine for the last groups. I can’t believe people are complaining.”
Another fan agreed, saying: “Loving the coverage this year. I think Nick Dougherty is a great presenter, glueing it all together just like David Livingstone used to do so well.”
One pleased viewer added: “Friday’s Sky coverage of the Masters was the single most compelling day of golf that I have watched since TV began covering golf. By the end of Thursday night, my interest had sadly waned. Then Rory, 66. It’s just unbelievable.”
McIlroy will start his third round with two shots behind the leader Justin Rose, who is eight under par, after a remarkable round of 66 on Friday, which propelled him back into contention.
