The Open Championship is trying to get ahead of fan behavior with a published conduct code

Key Points:

• Over 300,000 fans are expected to attend The Open at Royal Birkdale, marking a record crowd for golf’s oldest major, prompting the R&A to introduce a fan code of conduct titled “The Open Commitment” to ensure respectful behavior.
• The code emphasizes respect for players, the course, and fellow spectators, with the R&A prepared to remove individuals for serious or repeated misconduct, reflecting concerns raised by recent incidents at major golf events.
• The final round tee times may be adjusted due to the World Cup final scheduled shortly after The Open's conclusion, especially if England advances, though no changes are planned yet.
• Course changes at Royal Birkdale, such as new holes, were driven by club members rather than spectator management, and the R&A maintains that venue selection balances tradition and operational needs without prioritizing crowd size.
• Adam Scott was honored as the inaugural recipient of the R&A’s “Spirit of Golf Award” for his global contributions and embodiment of golf’s values, while PGA Champion Aaron Rai received a handwritten congratulatory letter from Jack Nicklaus.