World Cup opener sets English-language viewership record

The World Cup game between host Mexico and South Africa drew 7.1 million viewers, making it the most-watched opening match for an English-language broadcast in the United States.

Belgium, Egypt draw 1-1 in first World Cup game in Seattle

Mexico’s 2-0 win on Thursday on Fox, Fox One and Tubi also was the most-watched English-language broadcast in any World Cup group-stage match not involving the U.S., Fox announced Wednesday. The previous high was in 2022, when 2.8 million viewers watched host Qatar play Ecuador.

The Americans’ 4-1 win over Paraguay also set an English-language U.S. record, drawing 15.9 million viewers, more than double the previous record of 7.7 million in 2022. The match had a peak audience of 18.8 million from 10:45 p.m.-11 p.m. Eastern.

It also was the most-streamed English-language match for the U.S. team at 1.1 million viewers.

The Mexico-South Africa match had a peak of 9.1 million viewers.

Related

Russell Westbrook, one of the last Sonics draft picks, retires from NBANBA’s Lakers to be sold for record-breaking $12.5 billionTrail Blazers reps meet Portland officials to discuss Moda CenterUEFA members to boycott FIFA over World Cup private investors planLeBron James going to Philadelphia 76ers in his ‘last decision’Ex-Sonics voice Kevin Calabro stepping away from Trail Blazers