The Open Cracking Down on Golf’s Growing Fan Behavior Issues

SOUTHPORT, England —  Organizers of the oldest golf tournament in the world are taking steps this week to revive some of the original spirit of the game.

The Open Championship, run by the R&A, is implementing a new spectator conduct policy in the wake of recent incidents of poor behavior from golf spectators. When Round 1 of the Open tees off on Thursday, fans at Royal Birkdale Golf Club will be subject to a new fan code of conduct called “The Open Commitment.”

While the Open has traditionally been one of the tamer environments among golf’s biggest events, rowdy golf crowds have recently become a bigger storyline—and distraction—albeit, mostly in the U.S.

Wyndham Clark won the U.S. Open last month in front of a hostile crowd at Shinnecock Hills in Southampton, New York, that was openly rooting against him. That situation came less than a year after American Ryder Cup fans at Bethpage Black (also on Long Island) turned ugly against the dominating European team.

With 300,000 fans expected throughout the week—including 40,000-plus on peak days—The Open’s new fan policy includes five principles:

• Respect the Players
• Respect the Links
• Respect Each Other
• Be Aware
• Enjoy Responsibly

The guidance includes instructions to “not call out to players inappropriately during play” and “celebrate great play in a fair and sporting manner.” Fans “should help to create a welcoming, inclusive and respectful environment,” per the policy. Alcohol is not permitted in the grandstands.

While there is no ban on cell phones like the Masters, signs around the course instruct fans to not record video at any time and to be “respectful of play.”

“The Open Commitment isn’t about changing what makes The Open so special, it is about maintaining its long-standing traditions,” R&A CEO Mark Darbon said in a statement. “By following a few simple principles, everyone can help ensure The Open remains a welcoming, respectful and unforgettable experience for all.”

Serious or repeated breaches of the fan conduct policy “will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the championship grounds without refund.” However, it’s unclear exactly what would constitute fans being ejected.