Why Is the 16th Hole at the WM Phoenix Open So Famous?

The PGA Tour has many different events throughout its circuit. While fans enjoy all of these events, one, in particular, stands out. And no, it’s not any of the major championships! The WM Phoenix Open is by far the fans’ favorite event on the Tour, and only one reason lies behind it; the 16th hole on its course at TPC Scottsdale. What is it about this hole that has fans rushing over to the event like moths to a flame?

Why is the 16th hole at the Phoenix Open a fan favorite?

The Phoenix Open was first played at TPC Scottsdale in 1987. Since then, fans have flocked to the event each year, describing it as the perfect fan experience in golf. And all because of just the one hole. The 16th hole is a par-3 and one of the shortest on the entire Tour at 163 yards, although it can be stretched up to 170 yards. Doesn’t sound all that impressive, does it? Well, what surrounds it, is.

Unlike other golf holes, there is no grass seating or standings at the TPC Scottsdale’s 16th hole. On the other hand, it is enclosed by a 200,000-seat grandstand that goes up to three stories and gives the fans a quite literal ‘bird’s eye view’ experience. It is the only fully enclosed hole on the entire Tour, and its look has earned it the name ‘The Coliseum.’

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The atmosphere at the hole at TPC Scottsdale is unlike any other on the Tour. While the fans go wild when a player cracks a perfect swing, like Sam Ryder with his ace in 2022. they can also get brutal with boos and taunts when a pro misses a shot. Unsurprisingly, Sundays at the Phoenix Open are jam-packed and also the loudest days of the week.

The controversy over the 16th hole

While the fan-filled experience is certainly unlike any other on the Tour, a dark controversy lies behind it. As per Golf.com in 2019, Many in the sport have argued that the atmosphere is disrespectful to the traditional game of golf. They’ve also claimed that the craziness and the noise from the fans cheering or booing the players serves as a massive distraction. Fortunately for fans, that is just one side of the coin.

The majority of the fans and even the players love the event, especially that particular hole. They believe that it enhances the entire experience of the sport and brings the golfers and the players closer. Quite literally in this case!

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So, on which side of this controversy do you stand? And do you dream of sitting at the 16th hole and watching the players from above one day? Let us know in the comments below.