New Code of Conduct for Spectators at the Open Championship

London, United Kingdom Jul 14, 2026 ALN: Greetings from the 154th Open here in sunny Southport. I was reading a snippet in the local paper that said this fine auld coastal town had slipped down the order of merit of UK seaside resorts because it was “tired and lacking in value for money.”

Funnily enough, a couple of readers sent letters in to me recently saying exactly the same thing about the Tuesday golf column. However, it is important to recognize that Southport holds a unique charm and history that cannot be easily dismissed. The town, known for its Victorian architecture and picturesque coastline, has long been a destination for tourists and golf enthusiasts alike, hosting various events that showcase its scenic beauty and cultural significance.

Anyway, I won’t hear a bad word said against this place. A flooery, reflective observer of yore once wrote that Lord Street, Southport’s main Victorian boulevard, possessed an alluring “flash of Menton with a soupçon of pre-war Vienna.” This description captures the essence of Southport's elegance and historical significance, making it a fitting backdrop for the prestigious Open Championship.

I don’t know what it possessed when some of the golf writers got turfed out of the Sir Henry Segrave Wetherspoons as they tried to sneak one in after last orders, but soupçon wasn’t the word for it. The Sir Henry Segrave, named after the famous British racing driver who set the world land speed record on the sands of Ainsdale Beach, serves as a reminder of Southport's rich sporting heritage.

The bold Sir Henry, of course, set the world land speed record here 100 years ago over the sands of Ainsdale Beach. This historical achievement is not just a footnote in local history; it symbolizes the adventurous spirit of the town and its capacity to host significant sporting events. The legacy of Sir Henry Segrave is one that resonates with the community, illustrating the blend of history and sport that Southport embodies.

Those aforementioned golf scribblers will probably hurtle along just as quickly when they hear that the breakfast buffet has officially opened in the media centre. The media centre is a hub of activity during the Open, where journalists gather to report on the latest developments in the tournament, share stories, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with covering such a prestigious event.

It’s pretty toasty in this neck of the woods as the sun gets his hat on and comes out to play. The weather plays a crucial role in the Open Championship, influencing not only the players' performance but also the spectators' experience. The atmosphere is electric, and the warmth of the sun adds to the excitement of the event.

Fifty years ago at Royal Birkdale, the weather was so hot in that sizzler of 1976, even the Claret Jug had to wear a knotted handkerchief on its top. This anecdote serves as a humorous reminder of the unpredictable nature of British weather, which can turn from sunny to stormy in a matter of minutes. Weather conditions are often a topic of discussion among players, fans, and commentators alike, as they can greatly affect the outcomes of the matches.

In 1983, meanwhile, Linda Watson, the wife of the eventual champion Tom, had to go out shopping to buy just about every electric fan in Southport as her hubby and other global stars sweated buckets in the roasting Prince of Wales hotel. This story highlights the lengths to which families and supporters go to ensure that their loved ones are comfortable and can perform at their best during such high-pressure tournaments.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Already this week, one or two American golfers have taken to social media asking, “why do you Brits not have air conditioning?” Presumably, they’re staying in the Prince of Wales? This question reflects a cultural difference between American and British approaches to climate control, with many Americans accustomed to the comforts of air conditioning in warmer climates. The comments also underscore the ongoing dialogue between international players and local customs, as they navigate the unique challenges presented by the British weather.

The temperatures have been rising. The Open attendance is on the rise too. They are expecting a record-busting 300,000 spectators through the gates this week. It could be a lively old affair. The expected increase in attendance reflects the growing popularity of golf as a spectator sport, drawing fans from around the globe to witness the excitement of the Open Championship.

Golf fan behaviour has been a major talking point, particularly after last year’s Ryder Cup at Bethpage Park which was as raucous and as foul-mouthed as a bunch of squaddies on a pub crawl. The atmosphere at such events can often become boisterous, leading to discussions about appropriate conduct among fans. The challenge lies in balancing the festive spirit of the occasion with the need for respect and decorum, especially in a sport that has traditionally emphasized etiquette and sportsmanship.

Last month’s US Open at Shinnecock Hills was also marred by hoots, howls and heckles from gurgling, slack-jawed halfwits. Such incidents raise concerns about the impact of unruly behavior on the players’ performance and the overall enjoyment of the event for both spectators and participants. The need for a code of conduct is more pressing than ever as organizers strive to maintain the integrity of the sport.

Ahead of the final men’s major of the year, the R&A unveiled a new code of conduct for those on the other side of the ropes. This initiative aims to address the growing concerns about spectator behavior and ensure that the Open Championship remains a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The introduction of guidelines reflects a proactive approach to managing the unique challenges posed by large crowds and the evolving culture surrounding sporting events.

Something called ‘The Open Commitment’ has been published and it "encourages everyone attending to play their part in protecting traditions". The emphasis on tradition is crucial in maintaining the identity of the Open Championship, which has a storied history dating back to its inception in 1860. By encouraging spectators to respect the game's heritage, the R&A aims to foster an environment where the values of golf can be upheld.

On-course signs, meanwhile, will urge fans to respect the players, respect the links, respect each other, be aware and enjoy responsibly. These reminders serve not only as guidelines but also as a call to action for fans to engage in positive behavior that enhances the overall experience of the tournament. The hope is that by promoting respect and responsibility, the Open can continue to be a highlight in the golfing calendar.

I’m sure the majority will but in some ways it’s a depressing sign of the times that grown adults – and I use that term loosely - must be reminded to show a bit of decorum at a golf championship. The necessity of such reminders reflects broader societal issues regarding behavior in public spaces, where the lines between celebration and chaos can sometimes blur. It raises questions about the responsibility of fans to uphold the integrity of the sport and contribute to a positive atmosphere.

Of course, when many hark-at-me “event goers” treat sporting occasions as nothing more than an excuse for a booze-fuelled stag do, what chance have you got? This trend of viewing sporting events as social gatherings rather than competitive contests can dilute the essence of the sport, leading to concerns about the future of spectator behavior in professional golf.

It wasn’t like this back in the good old days. Then again? In 1870, when the dash and vigour of Young Tom Morris stirred the public’s imagination and he became the game's first superstar, The Open attracted a vociferous gathering of spectators to the links of Prestwick. The early days of golf were characterized by a different kind of enthusiasm, where spectators were genuinely invested in the sport and its players. This historical perspective serves as a reminder that while behavior may have changed, the passion for the game remains constant.

According to the newspaper reports of the time, many of the onlookers were "clearly completely new to the sport" and "decidedly unruly in most part." Sound familiar? This observation highlights the cyclical nature of spectator behavior, suggesting that even in the past, there were challenges associated with managing crowds at sporting events.

At Birkdale in 1983, an American writer described it as one of the drunkest Opens in history. The reputation for rowdy behavior at certain Opens has persisted through the years, with each tournament bringing its own unique set of challenges related to crowd control and spectator conduct.

There was the added stooshie of vandalism to one of the greens too when the words, ‘Dennis Kelly is innocent’ were gouged into the turf on the eve of the third round. Such acts of vandalism not only disrupt the tournament but also reflect a troubling trend of disrespect toward the game and its venues. Maintaining the integrity of the course is paramount, and incidents like this underscore the need for strict adherence to the code of conduct.

The day before The Open started that year, Parliament voted not to restore capital punishment in the UK. This historical context adds depth to the narrative of the tournament, reminding us that sporting events often occur against the backdrop of significant societal changes and political discussions. The intersection of sports and politics is a recurring theme, illustrating how events like the Open can reflect broader cultural currents.

As one golf scribe wryly observed at the time when the damage to the sixth green was discovered, “the MPs no doubt would have been more inclined to bring back hanging if they'd been confronted with the disruption of a major golf championship.” This year’s code of conduct won’t go quite that far. The humorous commentary on the situation highlights the challenges faced by organizers in maintaining order and decorum amidst the excitement of the tournament.

Opens in the north-west of England tend to be quite boisterous. The unique character of the region contributes to the lively atmosphere, where local fans bring their own enthusiasm and passion to the event. This regional flavor adds to the overall experience of the Open, making it a memorable occasion for both players and spectators.

Imagine if the nation’s fitba team get to the World Cup final? And Tommy Fleetwood or Justin Rose have a chance to lift the Claret Jug on the same Sunday that the soccer showpiece is being staged? The potential for overlapping events raises questions about crowd dynamics and the ability to manage large gatherings effectively. The excitement of simultaneous major sporting events can lead to heightened emotions and unpredictable behavior among fans.

Radio Five Live, for a start, will self-combust. The media coverage of such events is crucial in shaping public perception and engagement with the sport. The potential for increased viewership and interest in golf during major tournaments can have lasting effects on the popularity of the sport.

Twenty years ago, when The Open returned to Royal Liverpool for the first time in yonks, the use of mobile phones and the cameras on them became so overwhelming, the R&A brought in an actual phone ban. This decision illustrates the challenges posed by modern technology in the realm of sports, where the desire to capture and share experiences can sometimes conflict with the need for focus and respect during competitions.

It lasted until 2012. Nowadays, of course, these phones are part of the wider Open experience as punters immerse themselves in this, that and the other with championship Apps, info, downloads, videos and whatever else you can cram onto a clump of scroll and swipe gadgetry. The integration of technology into the spectator experience has transformed how fans engage with the tournament, offering new opportunities for interaction and information sharing.

Our obsession with the light of a screen means we must all be descended from bloomin’ moths. This humorous observation reflects the pervasive influence of technology in our lives and raises questions about how it shapes our experiences at live events. As spectators become increasingly reliant on their devices, the challenge lies in finding a balance between digital engagement and the authentic experience of being present at a live sporting event.

The 154th Open is going to be big. It’s going to be boiling as well. Let’s hope everybody behaves too. Now, where’s that code of conduct? As the tournament unfolds, the emphasis on respectful behavior and adherence to the code of conduct will be critical in ensuring that the Open remains a celebration of golf and a testament to the sport's enduring legacy.