If you just sat down with a cold drink expecting to see Rory McIlroy or Robert MacIntyre tearing up a links course, I've got some news. You might want to put the putter away. Today is January 18, 2026, and if you’re looking for the Scottish Open on TV today, you aren't going to find any golf clubs. Instead, you're going to find a lot of white robes and high-intensity throws.
Most people hear "Scottish Open" and immediately think of the Genesis-sponsored PGA event at The Renaissance Club. But that’s a summer tradition. Right now, in the heart of winter, the real action is happening on the mats at the Sportscotland National Centre in Largs. We're talking about the Scottish Open Judo Tournament 2026.
Honestly, it’s a common mix-up. But if you're a fan of elite-level competition, you’re actually in for a treat.
The Confusion Over the Scottish Open on TV Today
There's a reason your TV guide or streaming search might be acting a little funky. The term "Scottish Open" is basically a shared title in the world of sports. Usually, the golf world dominates the conversation, but their big dance doesn't start until July 9, 2026.
Today is specifically about the Junior and Senior categories of the Scottish Open Judo Championship. This isn't just a local meetup; it’s widely considered the premier judo open in the UK. Because we're closing in on the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the intensity is off the charts. Athletes are fighting for ranking points and, frankly, for their professional lives.
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If you were looking for snooker, you're also a bit early. The BetVictor Scottish Open snooker tournament usually wraps up in December. Right now, the snooker world is actually focused on the Johnstone’s Paint Masters in London, where Kyren Wilson and John Higgins are the names on everyone's lips.
How to Watch the Scottish Open Judo Tournament
If you want to catch the Scottish Open on TV today—meaning the live martial arts action—you won't find it on your standard cable channels like ESPN or Sky Sports Main Event. This one is a bit more niche, but it's very accessible if you know where to click.
- The Live Stream: JudoScotland is running a dedicated live feed through JudoManager.
- The Venue: It’s all happening live at the National Centre Inverclyde in Largs.
- What’s on Now: We are currently in the heat of the Senior and Junior categories. This follows yesterday’s sessions which covered the Veterans, Cadets, and VI (Visually Impaired) categories.
The beauty of these niche streams is that you get raw, unfiltered access to the mats. No commercial breaks every three minutes. Just pure, tactical combat.
Wait, I Really Wanted Golf. When Is That?
I get it. You want the salt air of North Berwick and the sight of a 300-yard drive. For the golfers, the Genesis Scottish Open is the one you’re likely hunting for. That event is co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour, which is why it draws such a massive global audience.
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Mark your calendars for July 9–12, 2026.
Golf TV Schedule for July 2026
When that time finally rolls around, the broadcast landscape will look like this:
- Sky Sports Golf: This is the home for UK fans. They usually start coverage around midday.
- Golf Channel / NBC: For those in the States, you’ll be waking up early. The Golf Channel handles the morning rounds, while NBC typically picks up the afternoon lead-in for the final two days.
- ESPN+: They usually have the "Featured Groups" coverage. If you want to watch every single shot a specific player takes, this is where you go.
Why Today Matters for Scottish Sports
Even if you aren't a die-hard judo fan, having the Scottish Open on TV today in any capacity is a big deal for the local scene. Scotland is currently positioning itself as a powerhouse for hosting international events leading up to the Commonwealth Games.
The tournament in Largs today has attracted judoka from all over the world. It’s a trial by fire. The "Junior" categories today aren't just kids; these are the next generation of Olympians. They’re fast, they’re incredibly strong, and they don't have the "play it safe" mentality you sometimes see in the veteran ranks.
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Common Misconceptions About the "Open" Brand
People often think there’s only one "Open" per country. In reality, Scotland has dozens. Beyond golf and judo, you have the Scottish Open in:
- Snooker: Usually December.
- Badminton: Often held in late November.
- Darts: Dates vary but typically late in the year.
This is why your search for the Scottish Open on TV today might have led you to a few different places. It’s all about the season. January belongs to the indoor sports and martial arts. July belongs to the fairways.
Actionable Steps for Sports Fans Today
If you’re still looking for something to watch right now, here is exactly what you should do:
- Check JudoManager: Hop onto the JudoScotland website to find the live link for the Senior finals. It’s the most intense thing you’ll watch all weekend.
- Verify your Snooker coverage: If you’re a fan of green baize, skip the Scottish Open search and look for the "Masters Final" coverage on BBC or Eurosport.
- Set a Reminder for July: If golf is your only love, go into your calendar and block out July 9. Tickets are already on sale for The Renaissance Club, starting around £35 for general admission.
- Don't Forget the Women’s Open: The Women’s Scottish Open usually follows the men’s event in August. Keep an eye on Sky Sports for that schedule as well.
Basically, you've got options. Whether it’s watching someone get thrown onto a mat in Largs or watching a 40-foot putt drop in North Berwick, the "Scottish Open" brand always delivers high stakes. Just make sure you're tuned into the right season.