Players sporting green ribbons at the Irish Open are doing so to show support for Irish cancer charity, Cancer Research UK.

In the world of golf, the third round of the Irish Open has been a spectacle not just for the competition, but also for the show of solidarity and support. Many players have been sporting green ribbons on their hats, a symbol of their commitment to various causes.

The green ribbons are a visible sign of support for the Make-A-Wish foundation, an organisation that grants wishes to children with critical illnesses. This week, Amgen has pledged to donate €2 to Make-A-Wish Ireland for every person wearing something green during the Irish Open.

The Irish Open is not the only event where players have been seen wearing green ribbons. During May's CJ Cup Byron Nelson, players wore green ribbons to raise awareness of mental health, albeit not in support of the Make-A-Wish foundation. Similarly, at the Memorial Tournament, players and caddies wore yellow ribbons to support the Play Yellow program, an initiative spearheaded by Jack and Barbara Nicklaus.

The practice of wearing ribbons to show support for good causes is not new in golf tournaments. Players and caddies also wore yellow ribbons at the Tour Championship, with the gesture made in honor of Joel, the nephew of Scottie Scheffler's caddie, Ted Scott.

The green bands on the hats at the Irish Open are a symbol connected to Irish tradition and identity, commonly associated with Ireland's national color. However, the exact origins of this practice are not clearly documented.

As for the competition, Adrien Saddier currently holds a one-shot lead in the Irish Open, with Angel Hidalgo close behind in second place. Rory McIlroy is four shots back from the leader, currently at 11 under.

The partnership between the Irish Open and Make-A-Wish Ireland began in 2023, with the charity designated as the Official Charity of the Irish Open, with a partnership running until 2027. This partnership has already made a difference, as evidenced by the story of 11-year-old Dáire, who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia as a baby and is now in remission, having had his wish to meet Shane Lowry, the 2019 Open champion, granted ahead of the Irish Open.

The green ribbons serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that sports can have on raising awareness and funds for important causes. As the Irish Open continues, the green ribbons will undoubtedly remain a prominent feature, symbolising not just support for a charity, but for the spirit of hope and resilience that the Make-A-Wish foundation represents.

Players sporting green ribbons at the Irish Open are doing so to show support for Irish cancer charity, Cancer Research UK.