ESPN Announces Decision On Marty Smith Before The Masters

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Apr 2, 2026 10:16 AM ET

Longtime ESPN reporter Marty Smith isn't ready to leave the Worldwide Leader in Sports.

Josh Carpenter of Sports Business Journal reported Thursday that ESPN signed Smith to a long-term contract. The timing of this extension makes sense considering Smith will be at Augusta National next week to cover the 2026 Masters.

Smith has become quite popular in the golf community over the past two years due to his work as a TGL sideline reporter.

"Personally in that arena, it was a very challenging assignment at first and remains so in certain ways. It moves really fast," Smith said. "I'm spending all this time with the players and I can ask these guys not just about the match they're about to play, but I can ask them about what's going on on the PGA Tour. I can ask them about their processes. I mean, I sit there and nerd out with them and it's this completely uninhibited time and I've tried very hard to take advantage of that."

Apr 10, 2024; Augusta, Georgia, USA; ESPN sports journalist Marty Smith interviews golf YouTubers Rick Shiels and Seb Carmichael-Brown during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Network© Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Network.

It's been a great run for Marty...and it's not over yet.

Smith, who joined ESPN in 2006, has covered NASCAR, college football and golf over the past two decades.

“Marty is one of our most versatile and distinctive voices – a relentless reporter and storyteller who consistently elevates ESPN’s coverage of college football, golf, and other major events,” said Mike McQuade, ESPN’s Executive Vice President of Sports Production. “His unique ability to connect with interview subjects allows our viewers to better understand athletes, coaches, and other prominent figures beyond their on-field performances.”

Not only is Smith incredibly versatile as a storyteller, he brings an infectious energy to ESPN's set no matter what the situation is.

Congratulations to Smith on receiving a well-deserved extension.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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