Golf Channel Criticized for Lack of Live Coverage During Scheffler’s Arrest

Golf Channel announced that they would provide complete coverage of the situation on Friday’s ‘Live From’ Golf Channel show. However, Golf Channel and NBC Sports faced criticism for their decision not to interrupt live coverage with news of Scottie Scheffler’s arrest before the PGA Championship’s second round. Social media questioned why Golf Channel did not have live coverage of the incident, with initial reports aired on ESPN by Jeff Darlington.

Golf Channel aired the Amundi European Masters on the Ladies European Tour from 5-8am, followed by taped coverage of the Mizuho Americas Open on the LPGA at 8am. An NBC Sports spokesperson mentioned that they would provide a full report on the day’s events on ‘Live From the PGA Championship’ on Golf Channel and Peacock after ESPN’s coverage concluded.

Due to broadcast restrictions, Golf Channel was unable to provide live coverage from the tournament while play was ongoing. Tee times were initially set for as early as 7:15am but were delayed due to a pedestrian fatality. ESPN had early round coverage of the PGA Championship, while Golf Channel was set to go live again at 7:30pm or after play concluded, as they did not have their crews at Valhalla Golf Club.

Golf Channel’s talent and production crews likely experienced delays in getting to the golf course similar to players and other officials. In their Stamford studio, Golf Channel did not have the necessary employees in place when the news broke at 6:35am. With the early tee times starting at 7:15am, there was only a short window of 40 minutes to prepare and go live before play began. At the time of publication, the top three stories on GolfChannel.com were related to the Scheffler situation.