Golf is widely considered to be a gentle game. Whether it’s from the perspective of the player or the viewer. However, when the time comes for the 18 holes at WM Phoenix Open, a golf course is just as loud as a football stadium. Many fans eagerly wait for the PGA Tour event just to witness the not-so-regular golf fans. Fans on Twitter discuss the wild atmosphere during the tournament.
The 2023 Waste Management Phoenix Open is only a day away from our TV screens. The event will take place in the regular stadium course in Phoenix, TPC Scottsdale. As players look to compete for the ultimate prize, the experience they endure is not usual.
Unlike other events and Majors in professional golf, the Phoenix fans are loud, and even feel free to throw their beers on the golf course. With every notorious incident being regarded as part of the tournament’s long-standing tradition, let’s take a look at why the course has a special reputation.
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The ever-loud Phoenix Open
As the PGA Tour event is approaching much closer, the excitement only builds much further. The event is widely considered the most attended golf tournament of the year. From the iconic 16th hole to the roar of the fans after a tee shot, the fans are who make the Phoenix Open so prominent.
USA Today via Reuters
PGA, Golf Herren WM Phoenix Open – Third Round, Feb 12, 2022 Scottsdale, Arizona, USA A detailed view of fans filling the stadium surround on the par 3 16th hole during the third round of the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports, 12.02.2022 13:44:06, 17671634, Third Round, NPStrans, PGA PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xAllanxHenryx 17671634. Image Credits: IMAGO
TPC Scottsdale, the venue of the tournament, is built in the style of a stadium course. The notable golf course can host 20,000 spectators. With the loud audience, the arena also records massive sales of beer. During last year’s tournament, reportedly 750,000 servings of beer were sold.
While the loud atmosphere at the Open may annoy traditional golf fans, many over the years have switched to appreciate the tournament. In a recent post on Twitter, the notable account Caddie Network asked its followers whether they like or dislike the fan culture surrounding the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Many golf stans shared their enjoyment of the loud atmosphere of the event, while one fan even labeled it as a ‘night club’. With many more wild reactions, let’s take a look at what the golf world had to say.
Golf fans discuss the unique atmosphere of the PGA Tour event in Phoenix
It’s like LIV Golf. But Louder.
— Grant Halloran (@granthalloran) February 8, 2023
I think it is fun as a unique experience that grew out of the tournament’s proximity to ASU. But I don’t think we need to have multiple venues that emulate it.
— Michael Kight (@MichaelKight17) February 8, 2023
I have been to the tournament since 1990. Almost every year. It is one of the most fun events out there. The culture works at this event. It may not work everywhere. But it works here.
— Kevin Morton (@kevinjmorton) February 8, 2023
I like it. Drastic change from Pebble Beach to Phoenix. Like going from a retirement home to a night club.
— Brandon (@Garcelon) February 8, 2023
I find the throwing of beer cans on 16 a bit much but do enjoy the stadium atmosphere
— Steve Batson (@stevieb25) February 8, 2023
As a one-off, it's fun. Don't agree with throwing beers, waters, cups, etc. Here's an idea: sell stuffed animals (or something soft) with proceeds to local charities – and animals go to local children's hospitals. Can only throw for holes-in-one, long birdie putts, chip-ins, etc.
— Charles Durrenberger (@C_Durrenberger) February 8, 2023
I think the atmosphere around 16 is incredible. I disagree with throwing beer on the green after a hole in one, but overall I think it’s an amazing experience for golf.
— Ethan (@tmx2legend) February 8, 2023
I dislike it, but that's OK.. ..I like golf to be liked by a variety of golf who like different aspects/formats and so on
— laloof (@Laloof1) February 8, 2023
No problem with it at all. Phoenix has a culture. So does Augusta. And they couldn’t be more different. I’m glad the sport has room for both.
— Randy Snow (@randallsnow) February 8, 2023
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It's cool because it grew organically. It's not something I'd want to see at any other tournament though.
— That Bishop Plainview Guy (@SundodgerBand) February 8, 2023
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As the WM Phoenix Open is only a day away, what are you most excited about? The fans, players, or the 16th hole? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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