What channel is the PGA Championship on today? TV coverage, live streams for Thursday’s Round 1

The 2025 PGA Championship is finally here, and the golf world is buzzing with anticipation as the season’s second major tees off this Thursday at the historic Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. For fans eager to catch every drive, chip, and putt, knowing exactly what channel is the PGA Championship on today is the first step to an unforgettable viewing experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this guide covers all the TV coverage and live stream options for Thursday’s Round 1.

This tournament marks a monumental return to Aronimink, a course that hasn’t hosted a major championship since 1962, when the legendary Gary Player claimed victory with a 2-under score. That 63-year drought ends now, and the stage is set for a modern classic. With defending champion Scottie Scheffler looking to go back-to-back and stars like Rory McIlroy chasing history, Thursday’s opening round promises drama from the first tee shot.

What channel is the PGA Championship on today? Full TV schedule for Thursday

If you’re asking, “What channel is the PGA Championship on today?” the answer is straightforward. Thursday’s Round 1 coverage will be split between two major networks: ESPN and ESPN+. This dual-broadcast approach ensures that fans get wall-to-wall action from dawn until dusk. Here’s the breakdown for Thursday, May 15, 2025:

• ESPN+ (Early Coverage): 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ET — Exclusive featured groups and marquee pairings, including early-morning tee times.
• ESPN (Main Broadcast): 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. ET — Comprehensive coverage of the entire field, with a focus on leaders and contenders.
• Paramount+ (Simulcast): 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. ET — Live stream of the ESPN broadcast for subscribers.

For cord-cutters, live streams are available via ESPN.com and the ESPN App, provided you have a valid cable login. Additionally, FuboTV, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV all carry ESPN in their base packages, making it easy to stream Round 1 on any device. Remember, this article originally appeared on The Sporting News, your trusted source for sports coverage. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Expert analysis: What to expect from Round 1 at Aronimink

Aronimink Golf Club is a beast of a course that demands precision over power. Designed by Donald Ross, the layout features undulating greens, tight fairways, and deep bunkers that punish errant shots. Thursday’s conditions are expected to be cool and breezy, with temperatures hovering in the low 60s and winds gusting up to 15 mph. This will test even the most seasoned pros, especially early in the morning when the dew is still heavy.

Scottie Scheffler enters as the heavy favorite after his dominant victory at last year’s PGA Championship at Quail Hollow. He’s looking to become the first golfer since Brooks Koepka in 2018-19 to win back-to-back PGA Championships. Scheffler’s ball-striking is unmatched, but Aronimink’s tricky greens could level the playing field. Expect him to lean on his short game, which has been sharp all season.

Then there’s Rory McIlroy, the four-time major champion who has been chasing a fifth for over a decade. McIlroy’s form has been erratic in 2025, but he thrives on big stages. His power off the tee gives him an advantage on Aronimink’s longer par-4s, but his putting remains a wildcard. If Rory can find a rhythm with the flat stick, he’ll be a threat to post a low number on Thursday.

Other players to watch include Bryson DeChambeau, who has reinvented his game with a more controlled approach; Tommy Fleetwood, a perennial contender who has yet to break through in a major; and Cameron Young, whose length and creativity make him a dark horse. Don’t forget Chris Gotterup, a rising star looking for his first Wanamaker Trophy. All of these players are still vying to hoist that iconic trophy for the first time.

How to watch the PGA Championship live streams on Thursday

For fans who can’t get to a TV, live streams are the next best thing. The PGA Championship offers multiple digital options to ensure you don’t miss a single shot. Here’s how to tune in for Thursday’s Round 1:

• ESPN+: Start your morning with exclusive coverage of featured groups. This is the best option for early risers who want to see stars like Scheffler and McIlroy in their prime-time slots.
• ESPN App: Download the app on your phone, tablet, or smart TV. You’ll need a cable subscription or a streaming service that includes ESPN to unlock the main broadcast.
• Paramount+: If you’re subscribed to Paramount+ with Showtime, you can stream the ESPN broadcast directly through the platform. No cable login required.
• Free streaming options: Some services like FuboTV offer free trials for new users. This is a great way to watch Round 1 without a long-term commitment.

Pro tip: Set up your devices early. The early-morning coverage on ESPN+ starts at 7:00 a.m. ET, so if you’re on the West Coast, you’ll need to be awake by 4:00 a.m. PT. The main ESPN broadcast kicks off at 1:00 p.m. ET, which is perfect for an afternoon viewing session.

Predictions: Who will lead after Round 1?

Predicting a first-round leader at a major is always a gamble, but Aronimink’s history and current conditions offer some clues. The course has not seen a PGA Championship since 1962, meaning no player in the field has competitive experience here. That levels the playing field and favors players who adapt quickly.

Scottie Scheffler is the safe pick. He’s been the most consistent player in the world over the last two years, and his ability to grind out pars on tough courses is legendary. Look for him to post a score around 3-under 67, putting him in the top five after 18 holes.

Rory McIlroy is the high-risk, high-reward choice. If his driver is on, he could shoot 65 or 66. But if he gets into trouble off the tee, a 72 is just as likely. My gut says Rory starts strong, carding a 68 to sit just off the pace.

For a true dark horse, keep an eye on Tommy Fleetwood. The Englishman has been knocking on the door in majors for years, and Aronimink’s layout suits his precision game. A 67 or 68 is well within reach, and he could grab the solo lead if Scheffler and McIlroy stumble.

Finally, don’t sleep on Bryson DeChambeau. He’s been working on a more controlled swing, and his iron play has been stellar in 2025. If he can avoid the big numbers, he’s capable of a 66. But the wind could expose his aggressive style. I’ll predict a 69 for Bryson, which would keep him in the hunt but not atop the leaderboard.

Strong conclusion: Don’t miss a minute of the action

Thursday’s Round 1 of the PGA Championship is more than just a golf event—it’s a celebration of history, skill, and resilience. With Aronimink hosting its first major in over six decades, every shot carries extra weight. Whether you’re watching on ESPN, streaming on ESPN+, or following along on your phone, you’re witnessing a piece of golf history unfold.

Remember, what channel is the PGA Championship on today is only part of the story. The real magic happens on the course, where legends are made and dreams are shattered. From Scottie Scheffler’s quest for back-to-back titles to Rory McIlroy’s chase for major No. 5, the narratives are rich and the stakes are high. So grab your remote, fire up your streaming device, and settle in for a day of world-class golf. This is the PGA Championship, and it’s just getting started.

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Source: Based on news from Yahoo Sports.