The R&A Introduces New Fan Code of Conduct for The Open
Jul 20, 2025; Portrush, IRL; The Claret Jug on the first hole during the final round of The 153rd Open Championship golf tournament at Royal Portrush. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
Jul 20, 2025; Portrush, IRL; The Claret Jug on the first hole during the final round of The 153rd Open Championship golf tournament at Royal Portrush. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
With hundreds of thousands of fans set to descend on Royal Birkdale for the 154th Open Championship, the R&A has published a new set of rules for spectators.
The governing body of the tournament unveiled a new spectator code of conduct on July 10. The code of conduct is built around five principles and aimed squarely at preserving what makes The Open different from every other major.
The code is called "The Open Commitment." It explains how fans should behave toward players, on the golf course, with other fans, and in the local community.
The 152nd Open Championship 2024 An Open sign out on course during the Preview of The 152nd Open Championship 2024 Royal Troon Golf Club, Troon, Ayrshire, Scotland. 15/07/2024. Picture Thos Caffrey / Golffile.ie All photo usage must carry mandatory copyright credit Golffile Thos Caffrey Troon Royal Troon Golf Club Ayrshire Scotland Copyright: xThosxCaffreyx
The 152nd Open Championship 2024 An Open sign out on course during the Preview of The 152nd Open Championship 2024 Royal Troon Golf Club, Troon, Ayrshire, Scotland. 15/07/2024. Picture Thos Caffrey / Golffile.ie All photo usage must carry mandatory copyright credit Golffile Thos Caffrey Troon Royal Troon Golf Club Ayrshire Scotland Copyright: xThosxCaffreyx
R&A chief executive Mark Darbon explained the reasoning behind the move.
"The atmosphere at The Open is unlike any other major sporting event and one of the things that makes it so unique," he said as reported by bunkered.
"It is built on a shared respect for the players, the course, fellow fans, and the traditions of the Championship. Every year, our fans play a huge part in creating that experience.
The Open Commitment isn't about changing what makes The Open so special. It is about maintaining its long-standing traditions. By following a few simple principles, everyone can help ensure The Open remains a welcoming, respectful, and unforgettable experience for all."
Fan behavior at golf's biggest events has received negative attention in recent years. At the 2023 Open Championship, eventual champion Brian Harman was booed on the first tee.
At last month's U.S. Open, champion Wyndham Clark had to deal with poor behavior from some fans. The Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black Course also received heavy criticism because of the crowd's behavior.
The five principles of The Commitment cover the following ground.
Respecting players by staying quiet during shots and keeping mobile devices on silent. Also, respect the links by following signage and rope lines.
Respecting each other with a zero-tolerance policy on threatening behavior.
Stay aware of fast-moving golf balls and enjoy alcohol responsibly, with none permitted inside grandstands or brought from outside the venue.
What Happens if Fans Break the Rules At The Open
Fans who witness unacceptable behavior can report it by speaking to staff, marshals, stewards, or police on-site.
Reports can also be submitted online or via email at FanFeedback@TheOpen.com.
Serious or repeated breaches will not be tolerated. The R&A confirmed that fans who violate the commitment may be removed from the championship grounds without a refund. By attending The Open, fans agree to comply with the code in full.
The code also includes a safeguarding provision. Any concerns regarding the well-being or safety of a child or vulnerable adult should be reported immediately to a member of staff, marshal, steward, or police officer, per the R&A's guidelines.
What do you think about The Open's new fan code of conduct? Let us know in the comments!
Written by
Sneha Abraham
Edited by
Koushik Biswas