TV Coverage Fails to Capture Her Second Round as Organizers Struggle to Meet Growing Demand

The second round of the Women’s Open got underway at Royal Porthcawl on Thursday, with Lottie Woad, the young star of the tournament, playing her way through the morning without drawing much attention from TV cameras. While fans in attendance at the course were treated to a thrilling display of golf, those watching from home were left disappointed as the broadcast coverage began at 12 o’clock.

Woad, who has been making waves in the golf world with her impressive performances, started the day at 8.09am alongside Lydia Ko, the defending champion, but her progress was largely overlooked by TV viewers. The R&A, which has a partnership with Sky Sports to broadcast the tournament, has faced criticism for its limited coverage, with many calling for extended live hours to meet the growing demand for women’s golf.

According to insiders at Sky Sports, the broadcaster would be keen on extending the live coverage from next year, but it would require significant funding from the R&A to make it happen. The R&A has increased the prize fund for 2025 by $250,000, a move that has been welcomed by players, but some have questioned whether it goes far enough. Player facilities at the tournament have also been upgraded, with improved amenities and a more welcoming atmosphere.

Woad’s own performance on Thursday was a mixed bag, with a level-par 72 that left her five strokes behind the leaders. Despite the lack of TV coverage, she remains a fan favorite, with many hailing her as a “breath of fresh air” in the golf world. The 21-year-old’s highlight of the day came on the 6th hole, where she sunk a birdie putt from off the green. She also birdied the last hole to finish the day with a respectable score.

Other notable performances on Thursday included a 69 from Mimi Rhodes, who has won three times on the Ladies European Tour this year, and a 70 from Nelly Korda, the world No 1. However, it was the Japanese golfers who dominated the leaderboard, with Eri Okayama and Rio Takeda posting matching 67s to take the lead. Miyu Yamashita, a fellow Japanese golfer, is one stroke behind the leaders, along with a group of three players who shot under par.

The tournament continues on Friday, with Woad and Ko set to take on the course once again. As the golf world watches with bated breath, one thing is clear: the women’s game is growing in popularity, and it’s time for the TV coverage to keep up. The R&A has a unique opportunity to capitalize on this momentum and provide more comprehensive coverage of the Women’s Open, but it will require a significant investment.

“I think the R&A has done a great job in increasing the prize fund and improving the player facilities,” said a golf industry insider. “However, if they want to truly grow the women’s game, they need to provide more extensive coverage. The fans are demanding it, and it’s time for the R&A to deliver.”

The Women’s Open has come a long way since its inception, and it’s clear that it has a bright future ahead. With the right investment and support, the tournament can continue to grow and provide more exciting golf for fans around the world.