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Your Complete Guide to Watching the 2026 Memorial Tournament

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Golf Colors
·3 min read
Your Complete Guide to Watching the 2026 Memorial Tournament

There's something almost reverent about the first week of June at Muirfield Village. The morning mist lifting off Jack Nicklaus's meticulously sculpted creation, the azaleas still holding their bloom, and the finest players in the world walking fairways that demand precision over power. The 2026 Memorial Tournament begins Thursday, and if you're not making the pilgrimage to Dublin, Ohio, you'll want to know exactly how to bring the experience into your living room.

The Field That Justifies the Hype

Let's be clear: the Memorial isn't a major championship. But try telling that to the assembled talent this week. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler returns to a course where he's already claimed two victories, making him the obvious betting favorite. There's a reason they call Muirfield Village "Scheffler's playground"—the precise ball-striking required here suits his game like a tailored jacket.

Rory McIlroy, sitting at World No. 2, will be chasing a demon that's eluded him throughout his remarkable career. With 30 PGA Tour wins to his name, McIlroy has never hoisted the Memorial trophy. It's one of those curious gaps that makes golf so fascinating—a course that simply hasn't surrendered to his brilliance.

Fresh off his triumph at Aronimink, newly-crowned PGA Champion Aaron Rai makes his first start since capturing his maiden major. The field also features Cameron Young, Jordan Spieth, and Matt Fitzpatrick—the kind of leaderboard that could develop on Sunday.

What's at Stake

The winner will pocket $4 million from the tournament's $20 million purse. But at the Memorial, it's never just about the check. Winning where Nicklaus himself greets you on the 18th green carries a weight that transcends prize money.

Complete TV Schedule

Golf Channel and CBS will split broadcast duties throughout the week. Here's your viewing guide:

  • Thursday, June 4: 2-6 p.m. ET (Golf Channel)
  • Friday, June 5: 2-6 p.m. ET (Golf Channel)
  • Saturday, June 6: 12:30-2:30 p.m. ET (Golf Channel); 2:30-6 p.m. ET (CBS)
  • Sunday, June 7: 12:30-2:30 p.m. ET (Golf Channel); 2:30-6:30 p.m. ET (CBS)

Streaming Options

For those who want comprehensive coverage—and believe me, Muirfield Village deserves comprehensive coverage—PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ offers the deepest dive. Early coverage begins at 7:45 a.m. ET on Thursday and Friday, shifting to 9 a.m. ET on the weekend. Featured hole and featured group coverage runs throughout every round.

If you prefer to stream the broadcast coverage, Paramount+ will simulcast CBS's weekend coverage.

The Course Awaits

I've walked Muirfield Village twice now, and what strikes you most is the intentionality. Every bunker, every creek crossing, every subtle ridge in the greens exists for a reason. Nicklaus didn't just design a golf course—he designed an examination. The par-3 12th, with its island green, will provide drama. The risk-reward 15th will separate the bold from the cautious.

Round 1 and Round 2 tee times haven't been released yet, but they'll be available soon through official PGA Tour channels.

The Takeaway

Whether you're streaming from the office or settling in for weekend coverage on CBS, the 2026 Memorial Tournament promises the kind of golf that justifies rearranging your schedule. With Scheffler defending, McIlroy chasing history, and Rai riding major momentum, Muirfield Village is set to deliver. Clear your calendar accordingly.