Skyrocketing £13m Open prize pot sparks fears for golf's future as chief issues grim verdict if trend continues

Martin Slumbers has admitted concern over rocketing prize money in golf.

The Royal and Ancient boss spoke out as it was announced the winner at Royal Troon will receive a cheque for almost £2.4million. It is the highest amount in the history of The Open with a total prize fund of more than £13million.

But Slumbers confessed: “We remain concerned about the impact substantial increases in men’s professional prize money are having on the perception of the sport and its long-term financial sustainability. The R&A has a responsibility to strike a balance between maintaining The Open’s position in the global game, providing the funds required for governance and developing amateur and recreational golf in 146 countries internationally. We have to make choices if we want to continue to build on the significant growth in participation that is essential for golf’s future.

“We are determined to act with the interests of the global game in mind as we pursue our goal of ensuring golf continues to thrive in 50 years’ time.”

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