Golf fans were not happy with TV coverage of Sam Burns’ second-round 62 at the Open Championship. Or, rather, the lack of coverage.
The 29-year-old American matched the lowest round ever shot in a major championship, yet was not a major part of USA Network’s broadcast on Friday morning. Many watching from home were shocked to learn Burns had shot eight under par thanks to holing a bunker shot on the final hole because he’d been shown so little up to that point.
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What made the situation even more curious was the fact that fans saw nearly every shot from Lucas Herbert, who also posted 62 just minutes before Burns got to the 18th hole. At one point, USA Network even put up a “59 Watch” graphic for Herbert.
Adding to Golf Twitter’s bewilderment is the fact that Burns is the much bigger star, and, of course, he’s American. But before we get to those reactions, a few words on behalf of NBC Sports.
For one, Burns was coming from much farther back after an opening 73. He also did most of his damage during a back-nine 30 that included three consecutive birdies to finish. Meanwhile, Herbert shot a front-nine 28 to tie the Open Championship record and take the tournament lead as he made the turn. Oh, and Burns was part of one of Peacock’s featured groups if you were watching streaming coverage.
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OK, just getting that out there. Because the lack of Burns shots shown on TV—especially considering they had cameras following him all day—was a bit weird. And it seemed most of Golf Twitter, in particular, InsideSportsNetwork’s Brian Kirschner, agreed.
He broke the situation down further with this rant:
And plenty of others chimed in:
Incomprehensible – I didn’t even know Burns was close to that round
— Society of Golf Historians (@SHistorians) July 17, 2026
— Nick Novinsky (@NickNovinsky) July 17, 2026
Some of the worst TV coverage in golf history.
Sam Burns ties the major record shooting a 62 at Royal Birkdale.
USA viewers basically didn’t see any of it. Somehow the production team didn’t think we should see one of the lowest rounds ever.
pic.twitter.com/IrvM9KVRME— Rick Golfs (@Top100Rick) July 17, 2026
So Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns both shot -8 today and the broadcast showed maybe two shots of Sam Burns round?
Classic
— Liam Blutman (@Blutman27) July 17, 2026
CNN, ABC, CBS and NBC refused to air Sam Burns’ 62 today.
Makes you think 🤔 https://t.co/imxe06dAqK
— Christopher Powers (@CPowers14) July 17, 2026
Anyway, with a late tee time on Saturday afternoon, golf fans can expect to see more of Burns—and Herbert—on TV over the weekend.
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