Key Updates for the 2026 Phoenix Open: Aiming for Continued Success
As the 2026 Phoenix Open approaches, the tournament organizers are focused on building upon last year’s successful changes. After grappling with inclement weather and chaotic scenes in 2024, the event has transformed into a celebration of golf, fans, and a unique atmosphere that keeps players and spectators coming back for more.
A Transformative Experience from 2025
Following the tumultuous 2024 event, which left many fans and players calling for change, the 2025 Phoenix Open served as a testing ground for vital improvements. Tournament chairman Jason Eisenberg noted, “2025 went unbelievably well based on a lot of the changes we made on the 2024 Open. We’re hopeful that year over year we can just continue to have a better tournament.”
Key Improvements from 2025:
- Added entrance points to ease access.
- Widened walkways to enhance guest flow.
- Increased ticket prices to manage crowd control and improve the experience.
- Introduced new vendors, such as Novel Ice Cream, enhancing the food and beverage selection.
The most notable architectural change was to the stadium structure surrounding the iconic 16th hole, which now features:
- Fewer columns for better visibility
- Higher ceilings
- Clear glass for an unobstructed view
A new 500-seat club section has also been added next to the green, marking a significant enhancement to the spectator experience.
Scottie Scheffler Leads an Elite Field
While the Phoenix Open has lost its status as one of the PGA Tour’s signature events, it promises a strong field again this year. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who won his first PGA Tour title at TPC Scottsdale in 2022, will headline the event. With a recent victory at the American Express, Scheffler is on a meteoric rise in professional golf, boasting 20 PGA Tour wins and four major titles before turning 30.
Notable Participants:
- Brooks Koepka: Five-time major champion, making his return to the PGA Tour.
- Xander Schauffele (World No. 6)
- J.J. Spaun (World No. 7)
- Ben Griffin (World No. 8)
- Viktor Hovland (World No. 14)
Previous champions, including Ricky Fowler and Gary Woodland, will also compete in what is expected to be a thrilling tournament.
Celebrity Pro-Am Featuring Local and National Icons
The Phoenix Open will kick off with the popular celebrity Pro-Am, scheduled for Wednesday, February 4. This event gives fans a chance to see local and national personalities alongside professional golfers.
Notable Participants in Pro-Am:
- Trey McBride and Budda Baker from the Arizona Cardinals.
- Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs tight end.
- Sports legends like Larry Fitzgerald, Carli Lloyd, and Emmitt Smith are also set to participate.
General admission tickets for the Pro-Am are priced at $75. Tickets for the main tournament range from $75 on Thursday and Sunday to $125 on Friday and Saturday. Practice rounds on Monday and Tuesday remain free.
The 16th Hole: Centerpiece of Excitement
The 16th hole remains the heartbeat of the Phoenix Open, drawing huge crowds eager for the thrilling atmosphere. Players often play to the fans, wearing jerseys or tossing souvenirs into the stands.
This year also sees the return of the Closest-to-Pin competition, where the player with the best tee shots across the first two rounds can win $10,000 for a local non-profit of their choice, sponsored by Ford. Last year, Justin Thomas won for the second time with an aggregate distance of 15 feet, 3 inches.
Conclusion
As excitement builds for the 2026 Phoenix Open, the focus remains on maintaining the positive trajectory established in 2025. With high-profile participants, improved facilities, and a vibrant atmosphere, this year’s tournament is set to elevate the already remarkable legacy of the WM Phoenix Open. Fans and players alike can look forward to what promises to be another unforgettable week at TPC Scottsdale.
