Nina Caldwell
The WM Phoenix Open is one of the most popular and highly anticipated events on the PGA Tour, known for its vibrant atmosphere and massive crowds. Held annually in Scottsdale, Arizona, the tournament takes place at the iconic TPC Scottsdale, specifically on its Stadium Course. Designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the Stadium Course is renowned for its challenging layout, stunning desert scenery, and the famous 16th hole, a par-3 surrounded by grandstands that create an electric, stadium-like experience. This unique setting, combined with the event’s festive vibe, has earned the WM Phoenix Open the nickname The Greatest Show on Grass, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and spectators alike.
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What You'll Learn
- TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course - Host venue of the WM Phoenix Open since 1987
- Course Layout - Par-71, 7,266-yard design with the famous 16th hole stadium
- Signature Hole - The 16th hole, a 162-yard par-3 surrounded by grandstands
- Tournament History - First played in 1932, now a PGA Tour staple in Arizona
- Spectator Experience - Known for its lively atmosphere and record-breaking attendance numbers
TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course - Host venue of the WM Phoenix Open since 1987
The TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course has been the iconic home of the WM Phoenix Open since 1987, solidifying its status as one of the most recognizable and electrifying venues in professional golf. Designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf, this course is a masterpiece of desert golf architecture, blending challenging play with a spectator-friendly layout that amplifies the tournament’s unique atmosphere. Its 16th hole, a par-3 surrounded by stadium seating for over 20,000 fans, has become legendary for its party-like energy, earning it the nickname "The Coliseum." This hole alone encapsulates the course’s ability to merge high-stakes competition with unparalleled fan engagement.
Analyzing the course’s design, the Stadium Course measures 7,266 yards and plays as a par-71, offering a test of skill for the world’s best golfers. Its firm, fast fairways and undulating greens demand precision, while strategic bunkering and water hazards keep players on their toes. The desert landscape, dotted with saguaro cacti and framed by the McDowell Mountains, provides a stunning backdrop that enhances both the visual appeal and the strategic complexity of the course. For spectators, the layout ensures excellent visibility, with natural amphitheaters and elevated vantage points that make every shot feel up close and personal.
For those planning to attend the WM Phoenix Open, understanding the course’s layout can significantly enhance the experience. Start by arriving early to secure a prime spot at the 16th hole, where the atmosphere peaks. Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes, as the course spans over 150 acres and involves plenty of walking. Pro tip: download the tournament app for real-time updates on player positions and course maps. If you’re a golfer yourself, consider playing the Stadium Course outside of tournament weeks to experience its challenges firsthand—just be prepared for a premium greens fee.
Comparatively, the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course stands out among PGA Tour venues for its ability to balance elite competition with a festival-like atmosphere. Unlike quieter, more traditional courses, it embraces the energy of its fans, creating a unique blend of sport and entertainment. This duality is a key reason the WM Phoenix Open consistently draws the largest crowds on the PGA Tour, with attendance surpassing 700,000 in recent years. Other tournaments may offer pristine conditions or historic prestige, but none match the electric vibe of Scottsdale’s Stadium Course.
In conclusion, the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course is more than just a golf course—it’s the heartbeat of the WM Phoenix Open. Its design, atmosphere, and spectator experience make it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and casual fans alike. Whether you’re cheering from the stands at the 16th hole or navigating its fairways with a club in hand, this course delivers an unforgettable experience that defines modern tournament golf.
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Course Layout - Par-71, 7,266-yard design with the famous 16th hole stadium
The WM Phoenix Open is hosted at TPC Scottsdale, a golf course renowned for its challenging yet exhilarating design. At the heart of its layout is a Par-71, 7,266-yard expanse that demands precision, strategy, and a touch of daring. This isn’t a course for the faint-hearted; it’s a test of skill where every yard counts, and every hole tells a story. The design balances length with finesse, ensuring players of all levels are both challenged and rewarded.
One cannot discuss TPC Scottsdale without mentioning its crown jewel: the 16th hole. This par-3 stadium hole is a spectacle unlike any other in golf. Surrounded by grandstands that hold up to 20,000 spectators, it transforms the game into a high-energy event. Players feel the roar of the crowd as they aim for the green, knowing a well-struck shot can ignite a frenzy. It’s not just a hole; it’s an experience that blends sport with entertainment, making it a must-see for fans and a must-conquer for players.
Beyond the 16th hole, the course’s layout is a masterclass in variety. The front nine winds through the Sonoran Desert, offering stunning views but punishing wayward shots with unforgiving bunkers and native grasses. The back nine intensifies, with water hazards and elevated greens that demand accuracy. For instance, the 4th hole, a 470-yard par-4, requires a precise drive to avoid the desert waste area, while the 18th hole, a 467-yard par-4, features a stadium finish with a lake guarding the green. Each hole is a unique puzzle, forcing players to adapt their strategy.
Practical tips for tackling TPC Scottsdale include studying the course’s undulating greens, which can make even short putts treacherous. Players should also prioritize course management, especially on longer holes like the 558-yard par-5 15th, where laying up can be smarter than risking a heroic shot. For amateurs, focusing on consistency rather than power can yield better results, particularly on holes like the 16th, where precision trumps distance.
In conclusion, TPC Scottsdale’s Par-71, 7,266-yard design is a golfer’s paradise and a spectator’s dream. Its blend of natural beauty, strategic challenges, and the electrifying 16th hole stadium creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re playing or watching, this course demands respect and rewards those who rise to its challenges.
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Signature Hole - The 16th hole, a 162-yard par-3 surrounded by grandstands
The WM Phoenix Open, hosted at TPC Scottsdale, is renowned for its electric atmosphere, and no hole encapsulates this energy more than the 16th. A 162-yard par-3, it’s a deceptively simple layout on paper, but its surroundings transform it into a colosseum of golf. Grandstands rise like walls around the green, packed with up to 20,000 spectators whose cheers or groans can sway the fate of a shot. This hole isn’t just a test of skill; it’s a test of nerve, where the roar of the crowd becomes as much an obstacle as the pin placement.
To master the 16th, precision is paramount. The green is guarded by bunkers and a subtle slope that repels errant shots. Players must account for Arizona’s dry air, which can add 5-10 yards to a shot compared to sea level conditions. Club selection is critical—a 7-iron might feel safe, but a strong wind or adrenaline-fueled swing could send the ball sailing into the stands. Pros often opt for a controlled 8- or 9-iron, prioritizing accuracy over distance. For amateurs, the lesson is clear: trust your yardage book, not the crowd’s energy.
What sets the 16th apart isn’t just its design, but its ability to amplify every outcome. A well-struck shot is met with a deafening roar, while a misstep is greeted with a collective gasp. This duality makes it a career-defining hole—players like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have both experienced its highs and lows. For viewers, it’s a spectacle; for players, it’s a crucible. The hole’s reputation is so strong that even practice rounds draw crowds, as fans seek to witness the drama firsthand.
To fully appreciate the 16th, consider its role in the tournament’s ecosystem. It’s not just a hole; it’s an event. Spectators arrive hours early to secure prime spots, and the grandstands buzz with the energy of a sporting arena. For players, the key is to embrace the chaos. Deep breaths, a focused pre-shot routine, and a commitment to the chosen shot can turn the crowd’s energy into an advantage. As one pro put it, “You don’t play the hole—you play the moment.”
In the end, the 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale is more than a signature hole; it’s a phenomenon. Its design challenges players, its atmosphere electrifies fans, and its history cements its place in golf lore. Whether you’re a competitor or a spectator, it’s a reminder that golf, at its best, is as much about the theater as it is about the game. So next time you watch the WM Phoenix Open, pay close attention to the 16th—it’s where legends are made, and memories are forged.
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Tournament History - First played in 1932, now a PGA Tour staple in Arizona
The WM Phoenix Open, a PGA Tour event with a rich history, traces its origins back to 1932, when it was first played as the Arizona Open. This inaugural tournament, held at the Phoenix Country Club, marked the beginning of a storied tradition that has since become a cornerstone of professional golf in Arizona. With a modest prize pool of $2,000 and a field of 50 players, the event was won by local amateur Ralph Stonehouse, setting the stage for nearly a century of competition. Over the years, the tournament has evolved from a regional showcase to a globally recognized spectacle, attracting top golfers and record-breaking crowds.
Analyzing its growth, the tournament’s transformation is a testament to strategic partnerships and venue changes. In 1987, it moved to the Tournament Players Club (TPC) of Scottsdale, a course designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, which has since become synonymous with the event. This shift not only elevated the tournament’s prestige but also introduced the infamous 16th hole—a par-3 stadium hole surrounded by grandstands that now holds the record for the largest crowd at a golf event, with over 20,000 spectators daily. The introduction of corporate sponsorship, notably by Waste Management in 2010, further solidified its financial stability and environmental initiatives, such as becoming the first-ever zero-waste tournament.
Instructively, the WM Phoenix Open’s success lies in its ability to blend tradition with innovation. While maintaining its roots as a competitive PGA Tour stop, the event has embraced entertainment, earning the nickname “The Greatest Show on Grass.” Practical tips for attendees include arriving early to navigate parking and crowds, especially during the weekend rounds, and utilizing the tournament’s app for real-time updates on player scores and course conditions. For those seeking a quieter experience, weekdays offer smaller crowds and better opportunities to watch golf up close.
Comparatively, the tournament’s impact on Arizona’s economy and golf culture is unparalleled. It generates over $400 million annually for the local economy, outpacing other major events in the region. Its charitable contributions are equally impressive, with over $160 million raised for the Thunderbirds’ charities since its inception. This dual focus on economic growth and community giving distinguishes it from other PGA Tour events, making it a model for sustainable sports tourism.
Descriptively, the WM Phoenix Open is more than a golf tournament—it’s a week-long celebration of sport, philanthropy, and community. From the thunderous roars at the 16th hole to the vibrant sponsor villages, every element is designed to engage fans. The event’s evolution from a small regional competition to a global phenomenon reflects its adaptability and enduring appeal. As it continues to grow, the tournament remains a shining example of how tradition and innovation can coexist, ensuring its place as a PGA Tour staple in Arizona for generations to come.
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Spectator Experience - Known for its lively atmosphere and record-breaking attendance numbers
The WM Phoenix Open, held at the iconic TPC Scottsdale, is a golf tournament like no other, largely due to its unparalleled spectator experience. Imagine a sporting event where the energy rivals that of a rock concert, yet the precision and skill of the athletes remain the focal point. This unique blend of excitement and tradition has cemented the WM Phoenix Open as a must-attend event for golf enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
One of the most striking aspects of the spectator experience is the sheer scale of attendance. With record-breaking numbers year after year, the tournament has consistently drawn crowds that dwarf those of other PGA Tour events. In 2023, the WM Phoenix Open welcomed over 700,000 spectators throughout the week, a testament to its magnetic appeal. This massive turnout transforms TPC Scottsdale into a bustling hub of activity, where every hole becomes a stage and every spectator a participant in the spectacle.
The lively atmosphere is further amplified by the infamous 16th hole, known as "The Coliseum." This par-3 hole is surrounded by grandstands that hold up to 20,000 fans, creating an electric environment reminiscent of a football stadium. Spectators cheer, jeer, and even boo, depending on the players' performances, making every shot a high-stakes moment. For those attending, a pro tip is to arrive early to secure a prime spot, as the stands fill up quickly, especially during the weekend rounds.
Beyond the 16th hole, the entire course is designed to enhance the spectator experience. Wide walkways, strategically placed viewing areas, and numerous food and beverage options ensure that fans can comfortably enjoy the action from start to finish. For families, the tournament offers designated kid-friendly zones and activities, making it an inclusive event for all ages. Additionally, the use of mobile apps and digital scoreboards keeps spectators informed in real-time, adding a layer of engagement that modern audiences appreciate.
What sets the WM Phoenix Open apart is its ability to balance the thrill of a party atmosphere with the reverence for the game of golf. While the event is undeniably festive, the focus remains on the world-class competition unfolding on the course. This duality is a key takeaway for event organizers across sports: creating a memorable spectator experience doesn’t require sacrificing the integrity of the game. For attendees, the WM Phoenix Open offers a rare opportunity to witness golf in a way that’s both exhilarating and authentic, leaving a lasting impression long after the final putt drops.
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Frequently asked questions
The WM Phoenix Open is played on the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Yes, the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course has been the exclusive venue for the WM Phoenix Open since 1987.
The course is famous for the 16th hole, a stadium-style par-3 surrounded by grandstands, creating one of the most electrifying atmospheres in golf.
