CW Network Reach Broadcast Rights Agreement With MGM Slam

"The MGM Slam features a single-night, eight-player knockout format built around 10-point tiebreakers, creating a condensed and high-stakes competition designed for television audiences."

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The CW Network continues to expand its live sports portfolio after reaching a broadcast rights agreement to air The MGM Slam, a $1 million men’s professional tennis event scheduled for Sunday, March 1, from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The third annual tournament will air live from 7–10 p.m. ET and 4–7 p.m. PT, placing the fast-paced exhibition squarely in a prime-time window as the network deepens its commitment to event-driven sports programming.

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The MGM Slam features a single-night, eight-player knockout format built around 10-point tiebreakers, creating a condensed and high-stakes competition designed for television audiences.

Headlining the field is American star Taylor Fritz, currently ranked ninth in the ATP world rankings. Fritz will be joined by fellow American Tommy Paul, the world’s No. 20 player, along with Italian standout Lorenzo Musetti, ranked fifth globally. Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik, a recent ATP Hong Kong Open champion, rounds out the group of top-10 talent.

The lineup also includes several internationally recognizable names who bring both pedigree and personality to the event. Norwegian star Casper Ruud will participate while competing at the Australian Open, the season’s first Grand Slam. Nick Kyrgios, one of the sport’s most polarizing and popular figures, adds further intrigue, while Brazil’s Joao Fonseca and France’s Gael Monfils complete the eight-player field.

Coverage will be led by veteran broadcaster Ted Robinson, who will serve as the play-by-play voice. Chris McKendry will handle host reporting duties throughout the live telecast.

Robinson brings more than four decades of broadcasting experience to the booth. He has called major tennis events across multiple networks. Robinson also serves as the lead play-by-play announcer for Pac-12 football on The CW.

McKendry, a longtime ESPN tennis presence, remains one of the sport’s most respected studio and event hosts.

The MGM Slam aligns with the network’s broader effort to attract appointment viewing and reach passionate fan bases through marquee events rather than traditional season-long rights packages.

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