Netflix Sets Japanese Record for Viewership in Live-Streaming the WBC, Expands MLB Streaming

Netflix reported record-breaking viewership in Japan for the live streaming of the World Baseball Classic. A new streaming deal with Major League Baseball has also been announced, making live games available to users. Additionally, 18.4M viewers for a BTS event are cited, and the World Baseball Classic becomes the most-watched program in Japan and the global baseball streaming event ever.

NFLX reported record-breaking viewership in Japan for the live streaming of the World Baseball Classic, making it the most-watched program on the platform in the country. The milestone underscores Netflix's growing ambitions in live sports, a category that has traditionally been dominated by linear broadcasters and dedicated sports streaming services.

The achievement comes alongside a new multi-year streaming deal with Major League Baseball that will bring live games to Netflix subscribers globally. The company also reported 18.4 million viewers for a BTS concert event, demonstrating the platform's ability to draw massive live audiences across both sports and entertainment verticals. MLB's opening night was streamed exclusively on Netflix, with executives highlighting their commitment to bringing the live sports experience to the platform.

Netflix's push into live content represents a strategic pivot designed to reduce churn and attract new subscriber segments. While the WBC results are encouraging, the economics of live sports remain challenging, with high rights costs and uncertain monetization relative to scripted content. Investors will be watching whether the MLB partnership translates into measurable subscriber growth and improved retention metrics in the quarters ahead.