Royal Birkdale on GOLF+

GOLF+, the leading virtual reality golf experience on Meta Quest, will work with The R&A to bring Royal Birkdale and an official experience of The Open to the GOLF+ TOUR, the game’s virtual online league.

Royal Birkdale will be released in GOLF+ on 8 July, giving players around the world the opportunity to experience one of golf’s most iconic championship venues ahead of The Open’s return to Southport.

The launch will be followed by the VR Open, which will run from 16 to 22 July within the GOLF+ TOUR, allowing players to compete alongside Championship week at Royal Birkdale.

When Royal Birkdale arrives in GOLF+, players will experience a championship-themed version of the course inspired by the setup of The 154th Open. Grandstands, spectator areas, and Championship branding will recreate the atmosphere of Open week, bringing players closer to the experience from anywhere in the world.

Matt Tomlinson, Head of Retail, Merchandise and Licensing at The R&A, said, "The Open is one of the world's great sporting events and we are always looking for new ways to connect fans with its unique traditions and atmosphere. Through this initiative with GOLF+, golf fans around the world will be able to experience Royal Birkdale in an immersive and engaging way, bringing them closer to The Open and helping us inspire new audiences to engage with the sport."

“Our mission has always been to make golf more accessible and help more people experience the game they love,” said Ryan Engle, CEO and Co-Founder of GOLF+. “Working with The R&A to bring Royal Birkdale and The Open to GOLF+ is another step toward that goal, allowing players around the world to participate in one of golf’s most anticipated championships.”

One participant in the VR Open will earn a VIP trip for two to The 155th Open at St Andrews in 2027, including Championship tickets and hospitality access for both the winner and a guest. Entry into the Grand Prize will be open to all GOLF+ players. Additional details regarding eligibility and entry requirements will be announced ahead of the Championship.

Fans attending The 154th Open in Southport will also have the opportunity to experience GOLF+ in person through dedicated activations at The Dunes House hospitality pavilion overlooking the 15th green and 16th tee, as well as within The Open campsite area.

Golf fans looking to experience the VR Open for themselves can get started with GOLF+ through a special promotional offer running from June 22 through July 15. Customers who purchase a Meta Quest headset bundle through the GOLF+ online store during the promotional period will receive Royal Birkdale at no additional cost when the course launches on 8 July.

The offer gives new players the opportunity to experience a championship-themed Royal Birkdale, compete in the VR Open, and participate alongside Championship week from anywhere in the world.

For more information about GOLF+, visit golfplusvr.com.