Manchester United’s defeat at Newcastle and historic Rory McIlroy triumph helps shatter record

Manchester United fell to yet another disappointing defeat on Sunday but their loss helped Sky Sports in more ways than one

Manchester United’s defeat to Newcastle United at St James’ Park helped play its part in a record-breaking day for Sky Sports.

Ruben Amorim witnessed his side taste defeat once again in the Premier League on Sunday, as United were beaten 4-1 in the northeast. Alejandro Garnacho had levelled the game after Sandro Tonali’s opener, but further goals from Harvey Barnes (two) and Bruno Guimaraes compiled United’s misery.

But Sky, one of the UK’s major sports broadcasters, posted a whopping audience of 7.5 million who tuned into its linear channels on Sunday. There was also a record average audience of 1.3 million tuning in between 6am and 2am, marking a record 19% share of total TV viewing and a 39% share among under-35s – both higher than any terrestrial broadcaster, according to information relayed by Broadcast Now.

Key factors were Premier League games as Liverpool hosted Brentford and United’s visit to Newcastle. There was also Peterbrough’s EFL Trophy final win against Birmingham City, Aberdeen v Rangers in the SPFL, and F1’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

But the main winner was Rory McIlory’s win at Augusta as the Northern Irish golfer picked up the famous green jacket as he overcame Justin Rose in his Masters play-off success.

Sky Sports managing director Jonathan Licht said: “Sunday was a day of unforgettable sporting drama, and a proud day for Sky Sports, as the live-action had fans gripped from the morning into the early hours.

“From Rory’s historic win at Augusta to an exciting Bahrain Grand Prix and a packed schedule of football, cricket and tennis – it was a day that had it all.

“These record-breaking numbers are a testament to the incredible teams who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring unmissable moments to life and showcase the very best in sport across the world.”

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