Martin Slumbers, the chief executive of the R&A, has announced his decision to leave his position at the end of 2024. This will conclude his nine-year tenure as a prominent figure in golf administration.
At 63, Slumbers will be actively involved in managing the upcoming Open Championship at Royal Troon and the AIG Women's Open at St Andrews before his departure. He took over the reins of the R&A and the secretary role of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club in 2015, following Peter Dawson's tenure, marking his entry into the St Andrews-based organizations.
Reflecting on his time at the R&A, Slumbers expressed, "It has been a privilege. This role, representing the R&A's employees, the members of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club, and our global partners, has been an honor I've carried with pride."
During his leadership, Slumbers has played a pivotal role in several major advancements in golf. Notably, he has been instrumental in the introduction of new regulations aimed at reducing the distance that golf balls travel, a rule set to be implemented in 2028. This move, crafted in collaboration with the United States Golf Association, was met with resistance from top players and manufacturers after extensive consultations.
Another significant contribution from Slumbers was the implementation of an all-ticket policy for The Open, first experienced at Royal Portrush in 2019. That year also marked the modernization of the rules of golf under his guidance. Additionally, 2020 saw the introduction of a revamped World Handicapping System in the amateur game.
Under Slumbers’ leadership, the R&A merged with the Ladies' Golf Union, advocating for women's golf. He initiated programs to enhance the inclusivity and accessibility of golf, particularly focusing on women and girls. This effort was reflected in the R&A's increased financial commitment to golf, with the Women's Open prize fund rising by 23% to $9 million (£7.07 million) in the previous year.
Concluding his statement, Slumbers shared, "In any career, there comes a time to pass the torch to the next generation. I am grateful and honored to have served as a guardian of the R&A and the broader game of golf for nearly a decade."
