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Fans at next week’s Open are being asked to adhere to a new code of conduct brought in by the R&A.
More than 300,000 visitors are expected at Royal Birkdale for the week of the championship, amid growing concern about the general behavior of golf fans.
Now the R&A has published ‘The Open Commitment’, which “encourages everyone present to play their part in protecting heritage”.
In a statement, R&A chief executive Mark Durbon said: “The atmosphere at The Open is unlike any other major sporting event and is one of the things that makes it unique.
“It’s built on a shared respect for the players, the course, fellow fans and the tradition of the championship.”
To avoid more uncomfortable scenes, signs on the course will tell fans to respect the players, respect the links, respect each other, be aware and enjoy responsibly.
Last year’s Ryder Cup was marred by unruly scenes during Europe’s victory over the United States in Bethpage.
The recent US Open, also held in Long Island, New York, was marred by barbaric behavior as the galleries targeted eventual champion Wyndham Clarke.
In 2024, the last time the Open was held in the north-west of England, winner Brian Harmon received a laugh from the home fans during his emphatic victory.
And a month after winning the Claret Jug at Royal Portash last year, world number one Scotty Scheffler said: “When I was leading the tournament in Ireland I heard some pretty fancy words.”
“People have a tendency to say things that are dumb. I can think of some things that were said to me in the final round in Ireland that were way over the line,” he added.
Scheffler repeated his criticism of the Portash crowd last month when Clarke was booed during his US Open win at Shinnecock Hills.
“The Open Commitment is not about changing what makes The Open so special, it’s about maintaining its long-standing heritage,” Darbon said.
“By following a few simple principles, everyone can help ensure that the Open remains a welcoming, respectful and memorable experience for all.”
The Code of Conduct will also be made available through The Open’s digital channels and ticketing communications for the Birkdale Championship near Southport.
