Why, according to golf etiquette, must there be silence on a golf course?
Golf and the successful execution of a shot require maximum concentration and good mental skills. The art of executing a successful golf shot is to be completely empty, yet highly concentrated. No rest or any distraction through movement interferes with a golfer's short but very intense phase of concentration during the golf swing. Furthermore, it used to be customary in fine British society to keep quiet and, above all, to be very quiet with yourself and those around you.
Loud noises and commotion were not part of golf etiquette in high society. Noise was reserved for the lower classes and the sports they mainly practiced at the time, such as rugby and soccer. But if you look at the second biggest sporting event in the world today, the Ryder Cup, there is no sign of this restraint and silence on the golf course. The spectators roar, cheer and celebrate at the top of their voices during this tournament week. But never in such a way that the players are disturbed in their concentration. As soon as a player hits a shot, there is absolute silence and tranquillity.
