For more than 165 years, The Open has been shaped by tradition, respect and the enduring spirit and allure of links golf. The world-renowned atmosphere that defines The Open flows from the feats of the players on the course and the passion of the fans who follow them.

The R&A’s purpose is to open golf to the world and it aims to stage inspiring championships by setting the highest standards for a welcoming, inclusive and respectful environment and helping to create a memorable experience for everyone who attends. We ask every fan to play their part in preserving the spirit of The Open by showing consideration for their fellow fans as well as players, staff, volunteers and the local community throughout the Championship.

Together, we can preserve the unique spirt of The Open and help everyone to enjoy a true celebration of golf with family and friends.

We ask all fans to adhere to the following guidance:

Respect the Players

• Remain quiet and still while players are preparing for and playing their shots.

• Do not call out to players inappropriately during play or request autographs outside of designated areas.

• Celebrate great play in a fair and sporting manner.

• Follow the guidance of event staff, marshals and security personnel at all times.

• Mobile devices should be on silent.

• Photography for personal use is welcome but must be silent and not disrupt play or disturb other fans.

• Audio recording, video recording or flash photography of play is not permitted.

Respect the Links

• Help us to protect the historic links by following all signage, barriers and rope lines to safeguard the greens, bunkers and all playing surfaces.

• Respect other cordoned-off areas to protect local wildlife and the natural environment.

• Support sustainability initiatives by reducing waste, separating litter into the relevant waste management facility, and utilising a reusable water bottle.

Respect Each Other

• Show courtesy and consideration to those around you at all times.

• All fans should help to create a welcoming, inclusive and respectful environment. The R&A has a zero-tolerance policy to any form of threatening behaviour directed at players, officials, staff, volunteers or spectators – including but not limited to; foul language, sexual harassment, or any discriminatory abuse on the grounds of gender, age, race, disability, sexuality, or religion.

• Flags, clothing or displays of support must be appropriate to The Open and the players, and should not obstruct views, disrupt play or negatively impact the experience of others.

• Be considerate to local people and communities when travelling to and from The Open.

• Safeguarding is a priority at The Open. Any concerns regarding the wellbeing or safety of a child or vulnerable adult should be reported immediately to a member of staff, marshal, steward or police officer. More information about safeguarding can be found here.

• Follow queueing systems and stewarding guidance in busy areas.

Be Aware

• Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in areas where balls may travel at speed.

• If you hear the warning call ‘Fore’ or see players, caddies or marshals gesturing, please remain alert and take immediate steps to protect yourself and others nearby.

• Prohibited items and unauthorised vehicles are not permitted on-site to help ensure a safe Championship environment.

Enjoy Responsibly

• For fans who consume alcohol at The Open, please enjoy it responsibly and respectfully.

• Alcohol brought from outside the venue is not permitted.

• Alcohol is not permitted within grandstands.

• Behaviour that disrupts the experience of others will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the course.

How to report unacceptable behaviour

If you witness any unacceptable behaviour or safety concerns at The Open, you can report it:

• At The Open: By speaking to a member of staff, marshal, steward or police officer

• Online: If you are not comfortable reporting concerns at the venue, you can do so online via this online form selecting ‘Fan Feedback’ as the enquiry type, or

• By Email: FanFeedback@TheOpen.com

By attending The Open, fans agree to comply with this Fan Commitment and all ticket terms and conditions.

Serious or repeated breaches of The Open’s Commitment will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the Championship grounds without refund.

Thank you for helping preserve the atmosphere that makes The Open one of the world’s greatest sporting events.