Troon, Scotland: Martin Slumbers has warned of the dangers of rapidly rising purses in professional golf.

“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,” said Slumbers, Chief Executive Officer of The R&A.

“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,” he added.

The winner of this week’s 152nd Open at Royal Troon will receive US$3.1 million in prize money – the highest amount in the history of The Open which is returning to the renowned Ayrshire links for the 10th time.

The R&A announced that the total prize fund for The Open this year will be US$17 million, a US$500,000 increase on 2023.

Slumbers said: “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.”

Prize money this week shall be allocated only to professional golfers.

If more than 70 professional golfers qualify for the final two rounds, additional prize money will be added. Prize money will decrease by US$125 per qualifying place above 70 to a minimum of US$37,650.

For non-qualifiers after two rounds, the leading 10 professional golfers and ties will earn US$12,350 while the next 20 professional golfers and ties will earn US$10,300. The remainder of professional golfers and ties will earn US$8,750.