Because among other things, the hosting, tentage, generators, trailers and circus infrastructure of a modern open is entirely on the East course, that includes the range which is Hole 9 of the East. If it's a spectator-less tournament, then maybe... but what is the point?
TV money and more people watch on TV than attend the event anyways. Also the players still get to have their major (and the money that comes along with it).
I'd much rather see them play with no fans than not play at all.
Me too, but my scenario was addressing a "spectator" tournament...
The Fox deal (for all USGA events) is about 90 million a year... that would beat my estimate of gate receipts (40,000 x 500 = 20m) by far, but luxury accomodations for 30 people is about 100k per group with all sorts of price tiers in and above... I don't kknow what the rake is from on-site merch, and eats/drinks... but TV is likely to beat it all comfortably.... but that doesn't mean that other 40...45...50 million from having people there is not without deep consideration...