The R&A is considering an earlier start for the final round of The Open Championship to prevent a scheduling clash with the World Cup final, both set for Sunday, July 19. The golf major at Royal Birkdale traditionally concludes around 18:30 BST, while the football final in New Jersey kicks off at 20:00 BST.
"We're conscious of other events happening on that date," said R&A chief executive Mark Darbon. "Of course, some things are out of our control, but we will attempt to avoid a clash."
This year's Open is expected to draw a record crowd of over 300,000 spectators. New initiatives include a 'Last-Chance Qualifier' on Monday, July 13, where 12 players compete for the final spot in the championship, and a 'Heroes Classic' exhibition on Tuesday featuring former winners Jordan Spieth, Padraig Harrington, and local star Tommy Fleetwood alongside Justin Rose.