Golf is open to all
The R&A is a leading body within the world of golf and engages and supports activities to ensure it is a thriving sport for all on a global scale.
We are based in St Andrews, the home of golf, and are here to make golf more accessible, appealing and inclusive. Our unique position and profile within the sport enables us to inspire, influence and engage people all over the world to take up and follow golf. Emanating from the rich heritage of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, formed in 1754, The R&A has evolved to play a global role in the sport. The R&A group of companies was formed in 2004 to take on The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews’ responsibilities for governing the Rules of Golf, staging The Open, golf’s original championship, and developing the sport. The World Golf Museum in St Andrews is part of The R&A group. In 2017, The R&A merged with the Ladies’ Golf Union (LGU) and now stages the AIG Women’s Open and amateur championships and international matches for women and girls.About Us
Governance
Together The R&A and the United States Golf Association (USGA) govern the sport of golf worldwide, operating in separate jurisdictions with a commitment to a single code for the Rules of Golf, Rules of Amateur Status, Equipment Standards and the World Handicap System. The R&A, through R&A Rules Ltd, governs the sport worldwide, outside of the United States and Mexico, on behalf of over 61 million golfers in 145 countries and with the consent of 164 organisations from amateur and professional golf.
Golfers
61 Million
Countries
145
Organisations
164
Championships
30+
Championships and Matches
The R&A is involved in staging professional and amateur championships, along with leading international matches, across the globe.
The Open is golf’s original championship. Played since 1860 on iconic links golf courses, it is the sport’s most international major championship with qualifying events on every continent. It was founded by pioneering golfers who had one guiding principle – to crown the Champion Golfer of the Year.
The AIG Women’s Open, one of the five major championships in professional women’s golf, attracts competitors from across the world. Royal Lytham & St Annes will stage the championship from 29 July to 2 August 2026.
Key Projects
Golf It!
The R&A’s family-focused project at Lethamhill in Glasgow is a community-based golf and entertainment facility.
The new development, which opened in 2023, includes the creation of a nine-hole course, putting greens, short-game area, adventure golf and a floodlit driving range to allow visitors to enjoy a wide range of golf activities.