The R&A chief executive has warned that golf must take steps to halt a potentially unsustainable rise in prize money at elite events. Martin Slumbers’ comments came after it was revealed that this year’s Open Championship in Troon will pay out $3.1 million (£2.38 million) to the winner of a $17 million prize fund.
The amounts are the largest in Open history, after $16.5 million was distributed at Royal Liverpool in 2023. Even pros who miss the cut at the oldest major tournament will receive a check.
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However, Slumbers is concerned about the direction the sport is heading in. “The R&A has a responsibility to strike a balance between maintaining the Open’s position in the world, providing the necessary funding for governance and developing amateur and recreational golf in 146 countries internationally,” he said.
“We have choices to make if we are to continue to build on the significant growth in participation that is essential for the future of golf. We remain concerned about the impact that substantial increases in men’s prize money will have on the perception of the sport and its long-term financial sustainability. We are determined to act with the best interests of the global game in mind as we pursue our goal of ensuring golf continues to thrive in 50 years’ time.”
Several PGA Tour events now have $20 million prize money, a move made in part to stave off the threat of the Saudi-backed LIV circuit. Golfers on the LIV tour typically play for a $4 million individual first prize plus team elements.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the public has been deterred from watching tournaments because of perceived financial vulgarity. Players who joined LIV were in some cases paid entry fees of over $100 million.