At the heart of the WM Phoenix Open lies a simple truth: exceptional shots are met with roaring applause, while golfing gaffes face a chorus of boos, occasionally ruffling the feathers of the pros.
A Storied History of Spectatorship
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the Phoenix Open, a tournament with a rich history of evolving crowd dynamics. From the lean years of the 1930s to the modest gatherings of the 1960s, the event hit its stride in 1971, further energized by its alignment with Super Bowl weekend in ’73. This strategic scheduling infused the tournament with a palpable, festive buzz.
Tiger’s Roar and the Stadium’s Rise
The game changed in 1997 when Tiger Woods delivered a masterstroke at the 16th hole, etching it into the annals of Phoenix Open lore. This momentous ace was a catalyst, leading to the construction of stadium seating and morphing the venue into the vibrant coliseum it is today, complete with nightly revelries and live tunes at the Birds Nest, creating a once-in-a-lifetime golf gala.
16th: A Hole Like No Other
While golf boasts iconic locales like Augusta’s Amen Corner, none quite capture the electrifying spirit of TPC Scottsdale’s 16th hole during the Waste Management Open. Dubbed “The Stadium Course,” this hole can host a staggering 20,000 fans, becoming a magnet for Arizona State University students and creating an unparalleled atmosphere where every shot can make or break the mood.
Booze Bans
At this year’s event, the festivities escalated to such a level that local authorities had to intervene, effectively putting a damper on the party by closing the gates and leaving some ticket holders out in the cold. To add to the drama, alcohol sales were momentarily suspended, forcing attendees to possibly watch the game with a clear head for the first time in Phoenix Open history.
Bunker Diving
The revelry reached new heights with fans treating the course like a playground, complete with bunker dives that turned the sand traps into makeshift pools. In an effort to reign in the chaos, the event organizers had to take drastic measures like limiting alcohol sales and halting admissions, turning the golf tournament into an exercise in crowd management.
When the Party Tips the Scales
Amid the jubilation, there are moments when the revelry tiptoes into excess, as evidenced by the recent need to close gates and temper the tide of alcohol due to overzealous fans. These instances underscore the delicate dance between preserving the event’s vivacious character and ensuring it remains a fitting stage for professional play.
Amidst the Mayhem, a Champion Emerges
Despite the surrounding chaos, the real victor of the WM Phoenix Open was Nick Taylor, who showcased remarkable poise by birdieing the 18th hole three times consecutively — once in regulation and twice in a playoff — to outshine Charley Hoffman for his fourth PGA TOUR victory.
Preserving the Magic of the Phoenix Open
As we look forward to next year’s Phoenix Open, we’re left hoping for an event that perfectly balances the thrill of a party with the respect and focus golf demands. Until then, we at golfroast.com will keep serving up our golf commentary with a side of humor.