Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood Tee Off at Everton Stadium

Justin Rose has issued a playful challenge to fellow golfer Tommy Fleetwood, inviting him to a round of golf at Everton’s newly constructed stadium ahead of The Open Championship.

The challenge came after Everton announced plans to transform their new 52,769-capacity home on the Mersey waterfront into a temporary golf course as part of a four-day event coinciding with the 154th edition of The Open at Royal Birkdale. The initiative, branded as Upper Deck Golf, will allow fans to hit approach shots from various points around the stadium’s upper deck, marking the first time the experience is offered outside North America.

Rose, a four-time Ryder Cup participant and former world number four, took to social media to extend the invitation, tagging both Fleetwood and Everton’s official account. In his post, he wrote: “I’m in the area that week! Fancy a match Tommy Fleetwood before The Open? Sure Everton can sort us a tee time!” The comment was made in response to Everton’s announcement about the stadium’s temporary conversion into a driving range.

You are both very welcome – we look forward to seeing you at our world-class waterfront home!

Everton FC

Everton responded swiftly to Rose’s challenge, confirming that both golfers would be welcome to participate in the Upper Deck Golf experience. The club emphasized that the event offers a unique opportunity to view their new stadium from an unconventional perspective while enjoying a recreational activity typically associated with golf courses rather than football grounds.

The Upper Deck Golf event will run from Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 July, with tee times available daily from 7am to 9pm. This window directly precedes The Open at Royal Birkdale, which begins on 17 July. Fleetwood, a lifelong Everton supporter, has not yet publicly responded to Rose’s invitation, but his known affinity for the club suggests he may be inclined to accept.

It’s an experience that has been delivered at some of the world’s most iconic venues, and this is a great opportunity for people to see our new home from a completely different perspective.

Aaron Duckmanton, Everton’s Chief Revenue Officer

The initiative reflects a growing trend of hosting non-traditional sporting events in major stadiums, particularly in the lead-up to high-profile golf tournaments. By bringing a driving range experience to a Premier League stadium, Everton aims to engage fans in novel ways while showcasing the versatility of their recently completed venue.

As of now, neither Rose nor Fleetwood has confirmed participation in a head-to-head match, but the open invitation from the club leaves the possibility open. Should both accept, it would mark an unusual prelude to one of golf’s oldest championships, blending football culture with the traditions of the sport ahead of The Open.