WM Phoenix Open: A Wild Party Turns Frustrating for Pros
For years, the WM Phoenix Open has been known as a golf tournament like no other. It’s a bucket-list destination for fans and a grin-and-bear-it stop for pros. The event transforms the typically staid sport of golf into a raucous college football tailgate for a weekend. However, this year, the party seems to have spiraled out of control, leaving many professionals frustrated and unhappy.
Saturday, traditionally the wildest day of the tournament, lived up to its reputation. Alcohol sales were suspended, and the gates were closed to new arrivals. The scenes from that day tell the story of why such measures were necessary. One fan even decided to take an up-close look at a bunker, highlighting the rowdy and unruly behavior.
Friday was no better, as a fan ended up hospitalized after falling from a grandstand. These incidents have left players gritting their teeth and dealing with the rowdy crowds as best they can. Most have tried to maintain good humor and resignation in the face of the chaos. Sahith Theegala, a participant in the tournament, described it as a blast but acknowledged that some individuals aren’t the best drunks. He also mentioned the need to block out the noise at times.
However, Sunday took things to another level. The crowd seemed to ratchet up their disruptive behavior, and this time, it got under the players’ skin. Former Ryder Cup captain Zach Johnson couldn’t take it anymore and lectured a crowd along one hole, expressing his frustration. Billy Horschel, who had been engaging with fans on Saturday by throwing footballs on the celebrated 16th hole, lost his temper on Sunday when fans disrupted his playing partner Nicolo Galletti’s swing.
Even Jordan Spieth, who is in contention, faced issues with the gallery. Despite the chirping, it didn’t affect one of his shots. In fact, Spieth managed an incredible sequence on the 18th hole, dropping the club just after impact and pointing into the crowd at somebody who yelled during his backswing. His ball ended up pin high, 15 feet away for birdie. The incident captured on camera showed Spieth expressing his frustration at the gallery.
The WM Phoenix Open has always been one of the most notable events on the PGA Tour slate. However, it seems that players will have a say in how the event plays out in the future. The disruptive behavior of the crowds may lead to changes and stricter regulations to ensure a more enjoyable experience for both players and fans.
In terms of the tournament itself, Nick Taylor emerged as the champion after a thrilling playoff against Charley Hoffman. The tournament, which had been delayed due to weather earlier in the week, had to finish the third round on Sunday morning. Taylor made an impressive comeback with three birdies in his last four holes to force a playoff. He eventually secured victory with an 11.5-foot birdie putt on the second playoff hole.
This win marks Taylor’s fourth career victory on the Tour. He had previously won the RBC Canadian Open, becoming the first Canadian to win at the Tour’s only stop in the country since 1954. Sam Burns and Scottie Scheffler finished tied for third, three shots behind Taylor and Hoffman. Sahith Theegala secured fifth place.
The next stop on the Tour’s West Coast swing is the Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club. As players move on from the WM Phoenix Open, they will surely reflect on the rowdy crowds and hope for a more serene atmosphere at future tournaments.
