Organisers the R&A have announced that next month's women's British Open golf will take place without spectators at Royal Troon, insisting player safety is paramount. 

With qualifying tournaments cancelled, the final field for the first major of the season will be determined by world rankings.

"The Championship will enforce strict health and safety protocols including the creation of a bio secure zone," the R&A confirmed.

"Only personnel essential to the Championship's onsite operations, namely players, caddies, officials, and staging staff, will be inside the zone with their movements for the week limited to the golf course and designated secure hotel.

"All personnel will be required to return a negative Covid-19 test from an authorised testing centre and will be subject to further daily temperature checks and rigorous protocols designed to maintain the integrity of the zone and the health of those within it.

"The playing of the Championship is subject to the necessary approvals being secured. The R&A will continue to monitor the pandemic conditions and work closely with the Scottish and UK governments and the health authorities to ensure the Championship is staged safely."

The tournament will be played between August 20th and 23rd with Sky Sports set to broadcast all four rounds.

"We believe that playing the AIG Women's British Open is a significant step for players whose playing opportunities have been severely impacted this year," R&A chief Martin Slumbers added.

"As they compete to be the 2020 champion in historic circumstances, these athletes will continue to inspire golfers and sports fans around the world, who will be closely following events from Royal Troon on TV and social media."