Full Breakdown
R&A Unveils “The Open Commitment” Fan Code Ahead of 154th Open at Royal Birkdale
7/10/2026, 2:36:10 PM
Launch of the New Spectator Guidelines
The Royal and Ancient Golf Club (R&A) announced a five-point fan code of conduct, branded The Open Commitment, on 10 July 2025. The policy will be enforced for the 154th Open Championship, scheduled for 12 – 19 July 2026 at Royal Birkdale in Southport. All ticket holders are required to accept the code as part of the tournament’s terms and conditions; serious or repeated breaches can result in removal from the course without a refund.
Recent Fan Behaviour Prompting the Change
The R&A cited a series of high-profile incidents that have tarnished the atmosphere of major golf events. At the 2023 Open Championship, champion Brian Harman was booed on the first tee. The 2024 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black and the 2025 U.S. Open, where champion Wyndham Clark faced heckling, also drew criticism. World number one Scottie Scheffler later described “fairly choice words” directed at him during the 2024 Open at Royal Portrush, noting that comments “were very far over the line.” These episodes motivated the governing body to formalise expectations for spectators.
Core Principles and Enforcement
The Open Commitment outlines five behavioural pillars:
1. Respect the Players – remain silent during shots, keep mobile devices on silent, and seek autographs only in designated areas.
2. Respect the Links – obey signage, barriers and rope lines; protect historic turf, wildlife and local environment.
3. Respect Each Other – zero-tolerance for threatening language, sexual harassment or discriminatory abuse.
4. Be Aware – stay alert for fast-moving balls and heed “Fore” calls.
5. Enjoy Responsibly – no alcohol inside grandstands, and all drinking must be moderate and sourced responsibly.
On-course signs will reinforce the rules, and fans may report violations to staff, marshals, stewards or police. The R&A confirmed that removal from the venue is possible for “serious or repeated breaches.”
Official Position of the R&A
R&A chief executive Mark Darbon emphasized that the code is intended to preserve, not alter, the tournament’s distinctive atmosphere. He noted that the Open’s “shared respect for the players, the course, fellow fans and the traditions of the Championship” underpins its uniqueness. Darbon framed the initiative as a collaborative effort, stating that adherence to a few simple principles will help keep the event “welcoming, respectful and unforgettable for all.”
Voices from Players (Verbatim Quotes)
- “The atmosphere at The Open is unlike any other major sporting event and one of the things that makes it so unique.” — Mark Darbon, Chief Executive, The R&A
- “It is built on a shared respect for the players, the course, fellow fans and the traditions of the Championship.” — Mark Darbon, Chief Executive, The R&A
- “The Open Commitment isn’t about changing what makes The Open so special, it is about maintaining its long-standing traditions.” — Mark Darbon, Chief Executive, The R&A
- “I heard some fairly choice words when I was leading the tournament in Ireland.” — Scottie Scheffler, World No. 1 golfer
- “People have a tendency to say things that are dumb… that were very far over the line.” — Scottie Scheffler, World No. 1 golfer
Impact and Significance
The Open attracts more than 300,000 spectators, delivering an estimated £150 million economic benefit to the host region. By codifying expected conduct, the R&A aims to safeguard the tournament’s heritage, protect player focus, and ensure a safe environment for children, vulnerable adults and local communities. The policy also aligns with broader sustainability goals, urging fans to reduce waste and respect the natural links ecosystem.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources present a consistent description of the new code and its enforcement mechanisms. No contradictory figures or divergent interpretations of the policy were identified in the available material.
