Ryan Fox had only just holed the winning putt at the 154th Open Championship at Birkdale, but Sky Sports Golf was already turning its attention to next year's event at St Andrews. The New Zealander's one-shot victory over American Cam Young marked the end of a thrilling championship, yet broadcasters have no time to rest.
Sky Sports' Year-Long Preparation for the Open
Jason Wessely, Sky's director of golf, outlined the extensive planning process during a behind-the-scenes tour at Birkdale. “We start thinking about the next one the day after the previous Open has finished. Because there's a process of evaluating what went right and what went wrong,” he said. The evaluation includes an autumn survey at the next venue in September or October, followed by brainstorming ideas and assessing the venue from a TV perspective.
Over the winter, Sky collaborates with the R&A to determine the editorial approach for the next Open. A spring survey around April, after the Masters, finalises all camera positions on the golf course. “Then we have a big picture of what the Open is going to look like,” Wessely added.
Behind the Scenes: Commentary and Technology
A highlight of the tour was spending time with legendary commentator Ewen Murray, widely regarded as the greatest of all time. Murray shared his hand-written notes on every player in the 156-man field, meticulously crafted because he believes writing by pen enhances information retention. Other familiar faces included Wayne ‘Radar’ Riley, David Howell, Dame Laura Davies, and Nick Dougherty.
The Open Zone, a marquee near the driving range, has become a central part of Sky's coverage, featuring social media stars, sports figures, and teaching experts. The zone also hosts the Rose Challenge, a 98-yard shot to a rose-shaped target honouring Justin Rose's 1998 hole-out birdie at Birkdale.
A Personal Challenge: The Rose Challenge
The reporter was invited to attempt the Rose Challenge, facing pressure from an audience expecting to see professional golfers. The hitting area included a slope to replicate Rose's position 26 years ago. With a pitching wedge in hand, the reporter made solid contact, avoiding damage to expensive technology. The ball-tracing software indicated the shot landed 53 feet beyond the target, but it was deemed a personal victory. The second attempt was not disclosed, but practice is planned ahead of St Andrews in 2027.
