Carlos Alcaraz clash hit by blackout as US Open release ‘disappointed’ statement
The renowned sports broadcasters also switched off its main ESPN channel, which was due to air a college football match at the same time.
Interruption to the coverage affected 14.7 million subscribers and whilst paying customers were naturally not best pleased, neither was the US Tennis Association.
USTA spokesperson Chris Widmaier said in a statement: “We’re very disappointed for our fans and viewers around the country that Spectrum and Charter could not resolve their dispute with Disney, resulting in a loss of ESPN coverage of Thursday night´s matches.
“We´re very hopeful that this dispute can be resolved as quickly as possible.”
Disney Entertainment said: “Disney Entertainment has successful deals in place with pay TV providers of all types and sizes across the country, and the rates and terms we are seeking in this renewal are driven by the marketplace.
“We´re committed to reaching a mutually agreed upon resolution with Charter and we urge them to work with us to minimize the disruption to their customers.”
The fallout has not just affected ESPN’s channels either. Disney-branded channels, Freeform, FX, National Geographic and all ABC-owned stations have all halted transmission on Charter Spectrum.
