Spectators can spend more time watching the action rather than queuing to pay for anything from refreshments to merchandise.

Spectators can use their contactless cards or mobile payments anywhere at the Championship, where MasterCard is the Official Patron for the fifth year.

And to bring this to life, MasterCard has created a payment-enabled jacket for Graeme McDowell, so he can pay while he plays by simply tapping his sleeve on a contactless reader. At a briefing with McDowell ahead of the Championship, MasterCard showcased the jacket from his G-Mac by Kartel clothing range. The jacket is an example of the clothing, rings, fitness and smart bands MasterCard is payment-enabling as part of its Commerce for Every Device programme, which brings to life the idea that everyday devices and wearables can become payment devices.

At the event, Graeme McDowell said: “It’s exciting to see new innovations brought to golf– whether that’s new equipment to improve your game or technology to make playing or watching a round more enjoyable. I love the idea of making purchases on and off the course seamless and easy. With this clothing, you can just tap your sleeve and pay, whether that’s for balls before the round or a pint at the 19th."

Raja Rajamannar, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, MasterCard added: “It’s really important to us that we make fans’ experiences at sports events exceptional, whether that’s by using our technology to speed up checkout lines or offering them once-in-a-lifetime experiences, like meeting their sporting idols. We think paying for things should be absolutely seamless, especially when you’re out doing the things you love.”

Fans at The Open this week will be the first in the UK to experience a Priceless Golf virtual reality experience. The virtual tour with Graeme McDowell will take fans to the iconic 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass’ Stadium Course in the US.

Jaime Baird, G-Mac by Kartel: “The G-Mac line is designed to stand out on the course with our signature modern-vintage look, as well as innovative product features to support a golfer’s game and lifestyle. So, we were delighted to partner with MasterCard to showcase our products together. We would love to one day see this kind of technology rolled out as an option throughout all our clothing to make golfers’ lives easier from car to course to clubhouse.”