Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of CNN, announced a 10-year deal to become the new US home for the French Open tennis tournament beginning in 2025, a move that highlights the continued draw of live sports for cable networks amidst the rise of cord-cutting. The deal includes live streaming of all 900 matches on the Max platform, with featured matches on TNT and TBS, and a new whip-around show on truTV. Bleacher Report and House of Highlights will serve as digital hubs for the prestigious two-week tournament that kicks off annually in late May.
The financial terms of the deal, valued at $650 million, were not publicly disclosed. WBD has had an existing relationship with Roland-Garros since 1989, when it began broadcasting the tennis tournament across Europe on Eurosport. This agreement solidifies WBD as the largest global broadcast partner for Roland-Garros. NBC has traditionally aired the French Open since 1983, but limited coverage of matches has led to frustration among viewers. TNT Sports plans to have an on-site presence in Paris, with announcing teams and commentators to be announced at a later date.
Tennis has experienced a surge in popularity and ratings in recent years, which could bolster WBD’s sports portfolio. While the NBA has been a major focus for TNT for 35 years, the network has expanded to include other sports such as the NHL, MLB, March Madness, and college football. TruTV has also shifted to airing sports in prime time. WBD’s deal with the NBA is set to expire after next season, with potential renewal options. However, NBC and Amazon have reportedly outbid WBD for NBA rights, with a new agreement expected soon.
The shift to acquire the French Open rights demonstrates WBD’s commitment to adding premium live sports content to its portfolio. The network’s global sports strategy aligns with events like Roland-Garros, and the addition of tennis complements its existing offerings. The deal highlights the ongoing competition among networks and streaming platforms for coveted sports rights, with the NBA negotiations serving as a key example. WBD’s partnership with Roland-Garros positions it as a major player in the sports broadcasting landscape, expanding its reach and audience.
With the increasing trend of cord-cutting and the rise of streaming platforms, live sports programming has become a critical asset for cable networks. The ability to offer exclusive coverage of prestigious events like the French Open enhances a network’s appeal to viewers and advertisers. By securing the rights to the tournament, WBD is strengthening its position in the market and solidifying its status as a destination for sports fans. The long-term nature of the deal provides stability and continuity for both the network and the tournament, ensuring a consistent and high-quality viewing experience for audiences across the US.
