It's Charles Schwab Challenge time! Are you ready to dive into the excitement of one of the PGA Tour's most historic events? Whether you're a seasoned golf fanatic or a curious newcomer, watching top pros battle it out at Colonial Country Club is an experience you won't want to miss. But with so many viewing options, how do you ensure you catch every swing, every putt, and every dramatic moment?
Fear not, fellow golf enthusiast! This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to watch the Charles Schwab Challenge, covering everything from traditional TV broadcasts to cutting-edge streaming services. Let's get you set up for an unforgettable tournament!
Your Ultimate Guide to Watching the Charles Schwab Challenge
The Charles Schwab Challenge typically runs from Thursday, May 22, to Sunday, May 25, 2025, so mark your calendars! Here's your step-by-step approach to securing your viewing access.
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Step 1: Identify Your Viewing Preference - Cable or Cord-Cutter?
Before we dive into the specifics, let's figure out your primary viewing method. Are you a traditional cable subscriber, or have you embraced the world of streaming? Your answer will dictate the best path forward.
- Cable TV User: If you have a traditional cable or satellite TV subscription, you're likely already set up for a significant portion of the tournament.
- Cord-Cutter/Streaming Enthusiast: If you've cut the cord, or prefer the flexibility of streaming, there are plenty of excellent online options available.
Step 2: Tune into Traditional Television Broadcasts (For Cable Users)
For those who prefer the classic TV experience, the Charles Schwab Challenge is primarily broadcast on a combination of Golf Channel and CBS.
Sub-heading: Golf Channel Coverage (Early Rounds & Early Weekend)
The Golf Channel is your go-to for early coverage throughout the week and the initial hours of weekend play. They often broadcast all four rounds.
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
- Thursday, May 22: Expect coverage on Golf Channel from approximately 4 PM to 7 PM ET. (Earlier coverage will be on streaming services).
- Friday, May 23: Similar to Thursday, Golf Channel will typically have coverage from 4 PM to 7 PM ET.
- Saturday, May 24: Golf Channel often provides early weekend coverage from 1 PM to 3 PM ET, leading into the main CBS broadcast.
- Sunday, May 25: On the final day, Golf Channel will usually carry coverage from 1 PM to 3 PM ET, setting the stage for the dramatic conclusion on CBS.
Sub-heading: CBS Coverage (Weekend Main Broadcasts)
When the stakes are highest, CBS steps in to provide the main broadcast for the critical third and fourth rounds on the weekend.
- Saturday, May 24: Catch the primary coverage on CBS from approximately 3 PM to 6 PM ET.
- Sunday, May 25: The final round and the crowning of the champion will be on CBS, typically from 3 PM to 6 PM ET.
Pro Tip: Always check your local listings for exact times, as broadcast schedules can sometimes have slight variations based on your region.
Step 3: Embrace the Power of Streaming (For Cord-Cutters & On-the-Go Viewers)
Streaming services offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to watch the Charles Schwab Challenge on a variety of devices, often with additional features like featured groups and holes.
Sub-heading: ESPN+ (PGA TOUR LIVE) - Your Comprehensive Golf Hub
ESPN+ is undoubtedly the most extensive streaming option for PGA Tour events, including the Charles Schwab Challenge, as it hosts PGA TOUR LIVE. This is where you'll find early morning coverage, featured groups, and featured holes that aren't available on linear TV.
- What it offers: PGA TOUR LIVE on ESPN+ provides more than 4,300 live and exclusive hours of coverage across 35 tournaments. This includes:
- Main Feed: Primary tournament coverage.
- Marquee Group: Dedicated coverage of a specific, high-profile group.
- Featured Groups: Coverage of two additional concurrent groups.
- Featured Holes: Focus on key holes like par 3s and pivotal holes (e.g., Nos. 4, 8, 13, and 16 at Colonial).
- Cost: ESPN+ is a subscription service, typically costing around $11.99/month or $119.99/year. It's also often included in the Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+), which can be a good value if you use those services.
- Schedule (approximate):
- Thursday, May 22: 8 AM - 4 PM ET (Main Feed, Marquee Group, Featured Groups, Featured Holes)
- Friday, May 23: 8 AM - 4 PM ET (Main Feed, Marquee Group, Featured Groups, Featured Holes)
- Saturday, May 24: 8 AM - 1 PM ET (Main Feed, Marquee Group, Featured Groups, Featured Holes)
- Sunday, May 25: 8 AM - 1 PM ET (Main Feed, Marquee Group, Featured Groups, Featured Holes)
Sub-heading: Paramount+ - For CBS Coverage On-Demand
Since CBS broadcasts the weekend rounds, Paramount+ is your official streaming home for that coverage.
Tip: Focus on clarity, not speed.
- What it offers: Live stream of the CBS broadcast during the tournament's key weekend hours.
- Cost: Paramount+ offers various plans, with ad-supported and ad-free options. They often have free trials available, which could be a great way to catch the final rounds!
- Schedule (approximate):
- Saturday, May 24: 3 PM - 6 PM ET
- Sunday, May 25: 3 PM - 6 PM ET
Sub-heading: Live TV Streaming Services (The Cord-Cutter's Cable Alternative)
If you're looking to replicate the cable TV experience without the traditional subscription, consider these live TV streaming services that carry both Golf Channel and CBS:
- Hulu + Live TV: A comprehensive package that includes Golf Channel and CBS, plus access to Hulu's on-demand library, Disney+, and ESPN+. This is a popular choice for sports fans.
- FuboTV: Known for its strong sports offerings, FuboTV includes Golf Channel and CBS. They often offer free trials, allowing you to sample the service.
- YouTube TV: A robust live TV streaming service that typically includes Golf Channel and CBS in its channel lineup.
- DirecTV Stream: Another option that carries both Golf Channel and CBS, offering a wide range of channels.
- Sling TV: While Sling TV can be a more budget-friendly option, getting both Golf Channel and CBS might require a bit of a workaround. Golf Channel is available via the "Sports Extra" add-on with the Sling Blue package, but CBS is not directly offered by Sling. You might need to combine Sling with Paramount+ for full coverage.
Recommendation: If you're new to live TV streaming, consider trying a free trial from one of these services to see which one best fits your needs and budget.
Step 4: Explore Additional (Potentially Free) Options
While dedicated subscriptions offer the most complete coverage, there are a few other avenues to consider, especially for quick updates or if you're in a pinch.
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Sub-heading: PGA TOUR's Official Resources
PGATOUR.com/liveaudio - PGA TOUR App: The official PGA Tour app usually offers live scoring, shot tracking, and potentially some limited free video highlights or clips.
- Tournament Website: The official Charles Schwab Challenge website might have some free live content or news updates.
Sub-heading: Prime Video (Check for Free Trials)
While not a primary broadcast partner for the Charles Schwab Challenge, Prime Video sometimes offers free trials for channels or content bundles that might include sports channels for limited periods. Keep an eye out for any specific promotions around the tournament dates.
Step 5: Consider a VPN for Geo-Restricted Content (If Traveling)
If you're traveling outside your home country and find that your usual streaming services are geo-restricted, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be a useful tool.
QuickTip: Scan the start and end of paragraphs.
- How it works: A VPN allows you to connect to servers in different countries, making it appear as if you are Browse from that location. This can help you access content that might otherwise be unavailable in your current region.
- Choosing a VPN: Look for a reputable VPN provider with fast speeds and servers in countries where the Charles Schwab Challenge is broadcast (e.g., the US for ESPN+, CBS). Popular options include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark.
- Important Note: Always check the terms of service of your streaming provider regarding VPN usage. While generally accepted for personal use, some services might have policies against it.
Step 6: Review the Broadcast Schedule and Set Reminders
Once you've chosen your viewing method, make sure you have the exact broadcast times locked in.
- Daily Schedule:
- Thursday, May 22: Early coverage on ESPN+, later coverage on Golf Channel.
- Friday, May 23: Early coverage on ESPN+, later coverage on Golf Channel.
- Saturday, May 24: Early coverage on ESPN+, lead-in on Golf Channel, main coverage on CBS and Paramount+.
- Sunday, May 25: Early coverage on ESPN+, lead-in on Golf Channel, main coverage on CBS and Paramount+.
- Time Zones: Remember that all listed times are typically Eastern Time (ET). Adjust for your local time zone (e.g., if you're in India, account for the significant time difference!).
- Set Reminders: Use your phone, smart speaker, or calendar to set reminders so you don't miss any of the action.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to watch the Charles Schwab Challenge for free?
You might be able to watch parts of the Charles Schwab Challenge for free by utilizing free trials offered by streaming services like Paramount+ or FuboTV, but these are typically for a limited time (e.g., 7 days). The PGA Tour's website also offers free live audio broadcasts.
How to stream the Charles Schwab Challenge without cable?
To stream the Charles Schwab Challenge without cable, you can subscribe to streaming services such as ESPN+ (for comprehensive PGA TOUR LIVE coverage), Paramount+ (for CBS weekend coverage), or a live TV streaming service like Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, YouTube TV, or DirecTV Stream, all of which typically carry Golf Channel and CBS.
How to find the Charles Schwab Challenge tee times?
Charles Schwab Challenge tee times are typically released closer to the tournament dates, usually available on the official PGA Tour website (PGATOUR.com), major sports news websites (like ESPN, CBS Sports, Yahoo Sports), and the Charles Schwab Challenge official tournament website.
How to listen to the Charles Schwab Challenge on the radio?
You can listen to the Charles Schwab Challenge on PGA Tour Radio, which is available on SiriusXM and often streamed for free on
Tip: Slow down at important lists or bullet points.
How to watch featured groups at the Charles Schwab Challenge?
Featured groups at the Charles Schwab Challenge are exclusively available through PGA TOUR LIVE on ESPN+. This streaming service provides dedicated streams for marquee groups and other featured groups throughout all four rounds.
How to watch Charles Schwab Challenge highlights?
You can usually find Charles Schwab Challenge highlights on the official PGA Tour website and app (PGATOUR.com), ESPN.com, CBS Sports, and the YouTube channels of the PGA Tour, Golf Channel, and CBS Sports after the rounds conclude.
How to watch the Charles Schwab Challenge internationally?
Internationally, PGA Tour coverage, including the Charles Schwab Challenge, is available across over 200 countries and territories via various broadcast and digital partners. Check local sports broadcasters in your country, or use a VPN with a US-based streaming service if legal and permitted by the service's terms.
How to access early morning Charles Schwab Challenge coverage?
Early morning coverage of the Charles Schwab Challenge, before the traditional TV broadcasts begin, is primarily available through PGA TOUR LIVE on ESPN+.
How to watch the Charles Schwab Challenge on a smart TV?
You can watch the Charles Schwab Challenge on a smart TV by downloading the app for your chosen streaming service (e.g., ESPN app, Paramount+ app, Hulu app, FuboTV app, YouTube TV app) directly onto your smart TV.
How to know the exact dates for the Charles Schwab Challenge each year?
The Charles Schwab Challenge is usually held in late May, typically the week after the PGA Championship. For the exact dates, always refer to the official PGA Tour schedule or the Charles Schwab Challenge tournament website for the most up-to-date information. For 2025, it was May 22-25.
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