The R&A is considering adjusting their plans for the conclusion of The Open Championship to prevent a potential clash with the World Cup final. Scottie Scheffler is set to defend the Claret Jug at Royal Birkdale on Sunday, July 19, which coincides with the World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The overlap of these two major events poses a challenge for Open organizers, especially with the possibility of a playoff at Birkdale and a significant number of viewers potentially tuning in, especially if England advances. Chief executive Mark Darbon acknowledged the issue and expressed the intention to avoid such conflicts as much as possible.
In addition to addressing the scheduling concerns, the R&A has announced that the Open will make a return to Royal Lytham & St Annes in 2028 after a 16-year absence. The decision to bring the event back to Lytham was made following improvements to the course to enhance the overall golfing experience. Darbon emphasized the need for careful planning due to the complexities of operating at the Lytham site during a modern Open Championship.