No other athletic event delivers so much variety, goodwill and tradition than the Olympics. No other event captures so many stories of perseverance and human drama than the Olympics. No other event holds the world's attention quite like the Olympics. Except, as is the case this year in Sydney, to television viewers here in America. NBC, the network broadcasting the Games, has suffered the worst ratings for the Olympics in television history.
Experts cite a number of factors for the low viewer turnout.
One possible reason is the time lapse between when events occur and when they are televised. Other media, such as the Internet and radio, have already released the results, thereby ruining the suspense. However, many also blame the Games later start in the year, forcing it to compete with baseball's pennant races and the opening of the NFL and college football season. Wake up, America. You can see pennant races and gridiron action every year.