British Open 2024: Why do golfers wear their hats backwards in the rain?

The British Open 2024 at Royal Troon in Scotland has played up to stereotype during the third round on Saturday, in which players have had to contend with persistent rain.

For some, that has meant whipping out umbrellas, waterproof jackets and trousers, while for others, most notably Billy Horschel and, briefly, Justin Rose, turning their hats backwards offered some respite from the elements.

Golf has long been one of the strictest sports when it comes to dress code. Although hoodies are now deemed acceptable (not that traditionalists will agree), it appeared odd to see Horschel and Rose wearing their hats back to front as they battled the conditions at Royal Troon.

Why is Billy Horschel wearing his hat back to front in the Open?

However, they weren’t doing it as a fashion statement. There was a very simple – and practical – reason for the subtle change in attire.

Non-stop rains means hats get very wet, which in turn leads to water eventually dripping down from the brim.

As anyone who has ever tried will attest, playing golf can be difficult enough at the best of times in perfect conditions, but it can be especially hard to focus on what you’re doing when drops of water are landing near, or even on, your ball.

It’s relatively rare to see play continue in the rain on the PGA Tour in the United States, where electrical storms are common. In Scotland, though, golf is deemed playable under constant lighter rain or drizzle, which may force golfers to take unusual action to beat the weather.