Located on the east coast of Scotland, the town of St Andrews is revered as the “Home of Golf.” For over six centuries, St Andrews has witnessed the birth and evolution of this elegant sport, nurturing countless legendary players while preserving golf’s core values — respect, integrity, and perseverance.
Here, golf is not merely a sport, but a way of life and a vibrant cultural heritage. From the world-famous Old Course to the quiet cobbled streets of the town, every detail tells a deep, enduring story of the bond between golf and St Andrews.
For golf enthusiasts around the world, St Andrews is not just the birthplace of golf — it is a spiritual home. We honor tradition, uphold etiquette, and, with reverence for this sacred ground, stride confidently into the broader world of golf.
About St Andrews
The Spirit of St Andrews
Respect
Honor your opponents, the course, the rules, nature, and tradition. Playing golf here is not just competition — it is an act of reverence for the environment and history.
Integrity
Golf is a sport of self-regulation and self-judgment. In St Andrews, players are expected to stay true to the rules and to themselves, regardless of whether anyone is watching.
Self-Discipline
Facing ever-changing natural conditions without complaint or surrender exemplifies the resilience and focus that golfers must possess.
Humility
Victory or defeat, success or adversity, all are met with equanimity. Golfers in St Andrews are taught to accept every shot — good or bad — with a humble heart.
About The R&A
The R&A — The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews— was founded in 1754 and stands as one of the most important governing bodies in global golf. As the guardian of golf’s traditions, the R&A not only sets and maintains the global rules of the game but also tirelessly promotes the sport’s growth worldwide.
Mission of The R&A: The R&A is committed to preserving the heritage and integrity of the game of golf by managing, promoting and supporting the game while leading it towards a more inclusive, sustainable and globalised future.
The R&A has the following core missions:
- Uphold the integrity, health, and enjoyment of golf
- Host tournaments that inspire excellence
- Lead golf's global modernisation, rooted in St Andrews
- Promote sustainability and social responsibility in golf
- Develop future leaders in the sport
The Meaning of the Rules
In golf, rules are not just about restricting behavior — they are a reflection of inner cultivation and cultural depth.
Rules teach us to respect our opponents and the environment while demanding the highest levels of honesty and self-discipline from ourselves.
On a golf course without referees, every player is their own judge.
Regardless of witnesses, golfers must honestly record their scores and willingly accept penalties.
This tradition of self-governance shapes golf’s unique spiritual landscape — one built on trust, responsibility, respect, and humility.