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How much tennis does the Tennis Channel really show?While the Tennis Channel has been frequently criticized for not showing enough of the actual sport and sticking to interviews and travel shows, the programming of this small channel has actually improved dramatically since its inception. Founded in late 2004 by Steve Bellamy, the company has obviously had to struggle with limited funds, not being affiliated with a major media organization like Viacom. I live here in Atlanta and I subscribed in late 2005. I was obviously very excited that there was one channel wholly dedicated to my favorite sport, and I didn't mind the extensive interviews with top players, because I am always interested in learning about how all the pro tennis players think and how they got to where they are. It is always more fun to watch the actual tennis game being played, however, and I'm sure that Bellamy realized this. They have managed to keep their dedicated viewership over the past few years, with great initiative. This company actually secured the television rights for the French Open last year, which was great because they really provided their viewers with in-depth, extensive coverage of the clay court grand slam. They managed to do the same with the Australian Open in January, and we were once again treated to a fortnight of wonderful competition. Another feature that I was impressed with is how they showed classic matches before Roland Garros last year. It really gets you prepared for and psyched up about the upcoming slam, and when they broadcast the Netjets showdown in March 2008 at Madison Square Garden between Roger Federer and Pete Sampras, it was clear for all to see that this channel cares about the important things in the game. It has been a little bit disappointing over the past two weeks, with FSN taking over the broadcast of the Pacific Life Open and Miami. Tennis Channel has been showint the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami over the past few days, which is encouraging, and I'm sure they will continue their relaible coverage throughout the European clay court season. One thing you can always count on them for is good coverage of the Davis Cup. Go here for more details about the
Tennis Channel.
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