Golf fans attending next month’s US Open and US Women’s Open, both in California, can only attend if they are vaccinated or can show proof of a negative test for COVID-19.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) did not detail the exact number of fans that would be allowed after announcing the policy yesterday (Monday) following consultations with California health officials.
The US Open in San Diego and US Women’s Open in San Francisco in June will mark the first time that a US major championships will require spectators to evidence their health status via COVID-19 vaccine or testing.
State of California residents must show that they have been vaccinated at least 14 days prior to the championships or that a negative test result has been received. Meanwhile, fans from outside of California must have been vaccinated 14 days ahead of time.
The USGA’s policy states that face coverings and social distancing will be required for fans, staff and volunteers even if they have been vaccinated.
In 2020, fans were not allowed at the US Open at Winged Foot in New York in September nor the US Women’s Open at Champions Golf Club in Houston in December.
John Bodenhamer, senior managing director of the US Championships, said: “Last year, we missed the energy that fans bring to our U.S. Open championships. We are grateful to our local and state health and safety officials in California to be in a position to welcome some fans back this year to witness the greatest players in the world contending for these prestigious championships, while working to maintain the health and safety of all involved.”
Those who have already purchased tickets to the US Open will receive a direct communication from the USGA with additional details.
The US Women’s Open will be held at The Olympic Club from June 3-6, while the US Open will be held at Torrey Pines Golf Course from June 17-20.
Earlier this month, the Masters at Augusta National welcomed around 8,000 spectators, who were not required to be tested. Meanwhile, the PGA Championship in May at Kiawah Island in South Carolina is allowing 10,000 fans per day who will not need to show proof of a negative test or vaccination.
Image: Bernard Gagnon / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Edited for size
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