PGA Tour preparing new fan code of conduct for 2027
Photo illustrations in India - 7 Jul 2025 In this photo illustration, a PGA Tour logo is seen displayed on a smartphone and in the background. India Copyright: xAvishekxDasx/xSOPAxImagesx avdtnmyjuly25lot3m
Photo illustrations in India - 7 Jul 2025 In this photo illustration, a PGA Tour logo is seen displayed on a smartphone and in the background. India Copyright: xAvishekxDasx/xSOPAxImagesx avdtnmyjuly25lot3m
The 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black showed the golf world why a strict fan code of conduct was a necessity. Now, with the way the US Open unfolded this year, the PGA Tour is looking to revamp its policy.
With the rise of sports betting, the misconduct in fan behavior has gotten out of hand. The Tour is trying to end the disruption.
"We're revamping our fan code of conduct,” senior VP of tournament administration Andy Levinson said. "We are concerned about fans interacting with our players in a negative manner."
DUBLIN, OH - JUNE 07: A PGA, Golf Herren Tour sign sits on the first tee during the second round of the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday at Muirfield Village Golf Club on June 7, 2024 in Dublin, Ohio. Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire GOLF: JUN 07 PGA the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon240607076
DUBLIN, OH - JUNE 07: A PGA, Golf Herren Tour sign sits on the first tee during the second round of the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday at Muirfield Village Golf Club on June 7, 2024 in Dublin, Ohio. Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire GOLF: JUN 07 PGA the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon240607076
It all began at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black when Team Europe faced the brunt of the crowd's negativity. Since then, the incidents have grown in number.
Earlier this year, the US Open crowd at Shinnecock Hills heckled eventual champion Wyndham Clark during the tournament. World No. 2 Rory McIlroy faced the same at the PGA Championship at Aronimink.
The PGA Tour aims to take extra measures to limit these instances.
“We’ve put a lot of effort into that. We have an ambassador program," he added, as reported by Front Office Sports' David Rumsey. "Which is a group of volunteers that is being trained to be amongst the crowds."
PGA Tour players have also faced negativity online. Major champions Matthew Fitzpatrick and Jordan Spieth have addressed that issue.
The R&A has also addressed the same issues at The Open this year.
How the R&A tackled fan conduct
After observing the Shinnecock crowd at the US Open, the R&A announced "The Open Commitment."
“We ask every fan to play their part in preserving the spirit of The Open by showing consideration for their fellow fans as well as players, staff, volunteers and the local community throughout the Championship,” read the official statement.
Through digital channels, ticket communications and on-site signage, the Open Commitment was communicated to the fans.
The PGA Tour will look to enforce the new fan code of conduct policy just like the R&A did at Royal Birkdale.
Written by
Avishek Sarkar