Royal Lytham & St Annes secured hosting rights for The 156th Open Championship in 2028, marking its return since 2012 when Ernie Els triumphed. The course, renowned for its historic links and role in golf's heritage, will stage the event from August 3-6, avoiding clashes with the Los Angeles Olympics. This follows Royal Birkdale hosting the 2025 Open and St Andrews' 2027 slot as the 'Home of Golf.'

Turnberry Golf Club, owned by Donald Trump, remains excluded due to logistical and financial hurdles. Despite Eric Trump's 2025 meeting with R&A officials, the Royal & Ancient emphasized the course's remote location and infrastructure gaps. The R&A stated it prioritizes venues where the focus stays on golf, not external factors, after Trump National Bedminster lost PGA Championship rights in 2022.

Muirfield, last hosting The Open in 2013, will return in 2031 after lifting its female membership ban in 2017. Its neighbor, Renaissance Club, will host the Scottish Open until 2030. Muirfield's delayed inclusion highlights the R&A's evolving criteria, with Rory McIlroy previously advocating for its return.

The R&A reported 278,000 spectators at the 2025 Royal Portrush Open, the highest non-St Andrews attendance. With Scottie Scheffler winning his fourth major at Portrush in 2025, the 2028 event at Lytham aims to reignite global interest. Critics question Turnberry's viability, but the R&A insists dialogue with Trump's team continues, though no immediate plans exist.