The interest in Tiger Woods’ return to golf has paid off for ESPN, as the opening round of the 2010 Masters tournament on Thursday, April 8,  was the most-viewed golf telecast in cable history, according to the sports network.

According to fast nationals, 4.9 million viewers tuned in during ESPN’s 4 p.m. to 7:38 p.m. EST live coverage of the golf tournament. Previously, the 2008 U.S. Open Championship playoff on Monday, June 16, 2008 was the most-viewed golf telecast with 4.8 million viewers. The playoff saw Woods defeat Rocco Mediate. 

Compared to last year’s Thursday telecast, viewership is up 102%.