Symptoms of climate change, including rising global temperatures, are increasing the frequency of extreme heat and negatively affecting the game of golf.Climate change is affecting golf in many ways, according to various sources, including the Environmental Protection Agency.Extreme weather events, including thunderstorms, high winds, and torrential rainfall, are increasing the frequency of tournament delays and schedule changes.Changing temperature and precipitation patterns can alter how championship courses play and appear.Increased rainfall can damage bunkers, wash out fairways, and leave greens unplayable for days or weeks.At the elite level, these changes can affect competitive outcomes by reducing predictability in course setup.Climate-driven pest and disease pressure is also increasing turf maintenance challenges, raising costs and altering course aesthetics.Professional golf relies on water-intensive course maintenance, making the sport especially vulnerable to drought and tightening water regulations. Research shows climate change-driven water scarcity has already forced golf courses, particularly in arid and semiarid regions, to reduce irrigated acreage, experiment with drought-resistant turf, or accept less visually pristine playing conditions, according to the United States Golf Association.Storm-related disruptions also reduce tournament revenue by limiting spectator attendance and forcing cancellations or shortened events, increasing financial risk for tour operators and host clubs.Extreme heat during professional tournaments can pose health risks for players, caddies, officials and spectators, according to the International Golf Federation.Heat stress, dehydration, and heat illness are growing concerns, particularly during multiday events that require hours of walking and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, according to the CDC.

Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, rhabdomyolysis, heat syncope, heat cramps, and heat rash.In response to a changing climate, professional golf organizations are adopting adaptation strategies, including redesigned courses, climate-resilient turfgrasses, improved drainage, smarter irrigation systems and revised tournament scheduling, according to the the USGA. This reporting content is supported by a partnership with Journalism Funding Partners.Erica Van Buren is the climate change reporter for The Augusta Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network. Connect with her at EVanBuren@usatodayco.com or on X: @EricaVanBuren32.This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Climate change impacts golf courses, tournaments