A number of spectators at the 150th Open were injured in a “stampede” during the final day’s play at the Old Course in St Andrews.
As Rory McIlroy teed off at the 18th on the final game on Sunday, golf fans breached barriers near the 17th green and started jumping the Swilcan Burn before running down the 18th fairway.
It is understood a handful of spectators were left with leg and ankle injuries.
Marshal ‘rugby tackled’ spectator
One marshal was seen “rugby tackling” a fan who seemed intent on reaching the 18th green before the final game had putted out.
A woman and her children, situated at the side of the first fairway near Grannie Clark’s Wynd, were left in tears after being pushed against barriers by a surging crowd.
One eyewitness said: “This seemed to result from a combination of bevvy, big crowds and McIlroy mania coming to a head.
“It was a well-organised, well-marshalled event but questions must be asked about the manner in which the crowds were allowed to spill on to the course at the 17th, because lots of people just went for it when they saw others make the run.
“It was a shame because until this point, the event had been incredibly well organised and it was a sad way to end.”
Part of the tradition at the Old Course, after the final game putts out, is for spectators to be allowed on to the course behind ‘the rope’ and led closer to the presentation ceremony in a controlled manner.
However, the scenes on Sunday evening brought back memories of the 2000 Open when ‘Tiger Mania’ swept the course.
On that occasion, similar scenes saw crowds through barriers around the 17th, with fans jumping the burn as Woods made his way to his first Open triumph.
A spokesman for organiser the R&A said: “We have robust plans in place which are supported by local agencies for the 72nd hole operation and procedures for the conclusion of the championship were carried out effectively.
R&A confirms ‘small number’ of fans injured
“A small number of fans were provided with medical treatment after attempting to the cross the burn and we wish them a speedy recovery.”
Police have confirmed no one was arrested in connection with the incident.
Security was tight for the final stages of The Open at St Andrews this year amid concerns the high-profile event might be targeted by protestors.
Australia’s Cameron Smith took home the Claret Jug and £2.1 million in prize money.
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