Open Championship to shift to early August in 2028 because of Olympic clash

Organizers announced that the 2028 edition of the Open will run from July 30 to August 6, instead of its usual mid-July dates. The change will also affect two other major tournaments — the AIG Women’s Open and the ISPS HANDA Senior Open — which will likewise be moved to August for that year only. For more than nine decades the Open has been held in July, making this the first time since 1936 that it will take place outside its standard slot. Organizers say the shift is temporary, with plans to return to the traditional schedule in 2029. 

Reason for the Shift

The 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles are scheduled to include golf competitions running from July 19 to July 29. Since the Open traditionally overlapped this period, holding both events simultaneously would force players to choose between competing for Olympic medals and contending for one of golf’s most prestigious titles. Organizers concluded that moving the Open a few weeks later was the most practical solution. The decision was made in consultation with relevant governing bodies and stakeholders to ensure the 2028 golf calendar supports both global events fairly. By shifting to August, players have the opportunity to aim for Olympic glory and still compete in the Open. Broadcasters, fans, and supporting staff also benefit — avoiding logistical complications and giving golfers clear focus and recovery time between major commitments.

Implications for Players, Courses and Scheduling

The date change will bring a new dynamic to the 2028 Open. First, potential Olympic participants now face the prospect of a packed summer — representing their country, then shifting quickly back into major-tournament mode. Preparation schedules, travel logistics, rest periods and training cycles will all need adjustment. Course conditions may also be affected. Early August weather in Britain can differ from mid-July — warmer temperatures, different wind patterns, and course setup may influence strategies, putting a new premium on adaptability. It may benefit some players who favor firmer, faster fairways and penalize others who thrive in more typical July links conditions.Organizers have emphasized that the move is a one-time adjustment. The 2029 Open is scheduled to return to its traditional mid-July timeframe. This suggests the shift is a practical compromise rather than a permanent alteration.

What This Means for the Global Golf Calendar

This decision signals a growing willingness among golf’s governing bodies to cooperate globally — balancing heritage tournaments with modern demands like the Olympics. It may set a precedent for more flexible scheduling when major global events overlap. For fans and broadcasters, the clarity now avoids a chaotic summer — instead offering a smoother calendar where the world’s top golfers can compete in the Olympics and still contest the Claret Jug. For players, it represents a rare chance to chase both Olympic and major success in the same summer.

Conclusion

The 2028 Open Championship’s move to early August marks both a break from tradition and a bold step toward global coordination in golf. While the shift poses logistical and strategic challenges, it also promises a unique summer for the sport — one where Olympic dreams and links history collide. As long as this adjustment remains temporary, the Open retains its legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of modern sport.