[Golf Topic] April Masters Viewership Ratings "Far Too Low"

Hideki Matsuyama's Masters victory did not boost viewership among Americans.

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] ○…This year's Masters viewership was somewhat disappointing.

US sports media Watch announced on the 14th (Korean time) that "the final round of the Masters was watched by 9.45 million households." Although this is 68% higher than the so-called 'Autumn Masters' held in November last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was significantly lower compared to previous tournaments held normally in April. The viewership was 13% lower than the 2019 tournament and a staggering 27% lower compared to the 2018 tournament.

This year's final day viewership was the lowest since 1993. Analysts attribute this to the poor performance of star players. Dustin Johnson (USA) and Rory McIlroy (Northern Ireland) were 'cut off,' and Justin Thomas and Bryson DeChambeau (both USA) fell behind in the championship race. Jordan Spieth (USA) also failed to make an impact. The absence of Tiger Woods (USA), who was involved in a traffic accident, was significant. Hideki Matsuyama (Japan)'s winning streak did not capture the attention of American viewers.