Sky Sports see off BT competition to secure rights for 2018 Masters

Barney Francis, Sky Sports managing director, said: "This is fantastic news and our viewers can look forward to another special week at Augusta National.

(Getty)

Sky Sports saw off strong competition from BT to secure broadcasting rights for this year's Masters in Augusta.

The BBC took the US PGA Championships off Sky last year and BT were known to be pushing for one of the biggest jewels in golf's crown.

But the American authorities are understood to have stuck with the Murdoch-owned broadcaster because of their pedigree in the sport.

Barney Francis, Sky Sports managing director, said: "This is fantastic news and our viewers can look forward to another special week at Augusta National. The Masters is a magical event played on a magnificent golf course.

"I believe our award-winning coverage and dedicated golf channel will give the best platform for a memorable tournament as part of a tremendous year of golf on Sky Sports."