The R&A has today issued a new code of conduct that its expects fans to adhere to when attending The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale next week.
‘The Open Commitment’ is built on five simple principles and encourages everyone attending to play their part in ‘protecting the traditions which make The Open one of the world’s great sporting events’.
The principles set out are: 1) Respect the Players. 2) Respect the Links. 3) Respect Each Other. 4) Be Aware. 5) Enjoy Responsibly (see details below).
A statement said the guidance aims to ‘ensure that players, spectators, volunteers, officials, staff and the local community can enjoy a welcoming, inclusive and memorable experience’.
The code of conducted will be communicated to fans before and during the Championship through digital channels, ticket communications and on-site signage.
Spectators are being warned that serious or repeated breaches of The Open Commitment could result being removed from Royal Birkdale without a refund.
Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of The R&A, said, “The atmosphere at The Open is unlike any other major sporting event and one of the things that makes it so unique. 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.”
The code of conduct is clearly meant to avoid a repeat of some of the scenes witnessed at Royal Liverpool in 2023 when Brian Harman, who went on to lift the Claret Jug, was the subject of repeated attempts to put him off through jeering, while some of the gallery was clearly intoxicated.
Similar behaviour was very much in evidence at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York, where European players, and even their family members, were the subject of verbal abuse, while only last month US Open champion Wyndham Clark was on the receiving end of barracking and jeers from American fans.
What are the requirements of ‘The Open Commitment’
- Respect the Players
Remain quiet and still while players are preparing for and playing their shots. Do not call out to players inappropriately during play or request autographs outside of designated areas. Celebrate great play in a fair and sporting manner. Follow the guidance of event staff, marshals and security personnel at all times. Mobile devices should be on silent. Photography for personal use is welcome but must be silent and not disrupt play or disturb other fans. Audio recording, video recording or flash photography of play is not permitted. - Respect the Links
Help us to protect the historic links by following all signage, barriers and rope lines to safeguard the greens, bunkers and all playing surfaces. Respect other cordoned-off areas to protect local wildlife and the natural environment. Support sustainability initiatives by reducing waste, separating litter into the relevant waste management facility, and utilising a reusable water bottle. - Respect Each Other
Show courtesy and consideration to those around you at all times. All fans should help to create a welcoming, inclusive and respectful environment.
The R&A has a zero-tolerance policy to any form of threatening behaviour directed at players, officials, staff, volunteers or spectators – including but not limited to; foul language, sexual harassment, or any discriminatory abuse on the grounds of gender, age, race, disability, sexuality, or religion.
Flags, clothing or displays of support must be appropriate to The Open and the players, and should not obstruct views, disrupt play or negatively impact the experience of others. Be considerate to local people and communities when travelling to and from The Open. - Be Aware
Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in areas where balls may travel at speed. If you hear the warning call ‘Fore’ or see players, caddies or marshals gesturing, please remain alert and take immediate steps to protect yourself and others nearby. Prohibited items and unauthorised vehicles are not permitted on-site to help ensure a safe Championship environment. - Enjoy Responsibly
Alcohol must be enjoyed responsibly and respectfully, while it cannot be brought from outside the venue and is not permitted within grandstands.
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