The R&A is considering bringing forward The Open Championship's final round to avoid a clash with the football World Cup final. Both events are scheduled for Sunday, 19 July, with golf's oldest major traditionally finishing around 18:30 while the World Cup kicks off at 20:00 BST at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

"We're conscious of other events happening on that date," said R&A chief executive Mark Darbon. "Some things are out of our control in terms of play-offs and the like, but we will attempt to avoid a clash." The Open returns to Royal Birkdale in Southport, and Darbon admitted: "I think we're all looking forward to an England-Scotland final, so let's see how that plays out."

Should two or more players be tied after 72 holes, a three-hole play-off will decide the winner, with sudden death holes following if required. The scheduling adjustment would ensure golf fans can switch to football without missing crucial moments from either showpiece event.