The WM Phoenix Open: A Unique Golf Experience
The WM Phoenix Open is widely recognized as one of the most exhilarating events on the PGA Tour. Unlike other prestigious tournaments, such as The Masters at Augusta National—which restricts patrons from bringing phones and running—TPC Scottsdale offers a lively environment filled with enthusiastic fans, making it the loudest event on the tour.
The 16th Hole: A Stadium of Excitement
The atmosphere escalates dramatically at the 16th hole, known as the Coliseum hole. This is the only stadium-enclosed hole on the PGA Tour, creating a unique experience where players, like Si Woo Kim, have the chance to fulfill their dream of scoring a hole-in-one.
Si Woo Kim’s Aspirations
While many golfers dream of major championships like the Claret Jug or the Green Jacket, Si Woo Kim harbors a special aspiration: to ace the iconic 16th hole at the WM Phoenix Open. For Kim, this 160-yard par-3 transforms into a psychological challenge, amplified by around 20,000 roaring fans.
"I wish I had a hole-in-one there, that’s my dream. I’ll take off my shirt, so that’s what I’m looking for!" Kim expressed on the show “Gravy & the Sleeze.” Known for his celebratory flair and passionate approach to the game, he relishes the electric atmosphere alongside his fans.
Kim’s Hole-in-One Record
Si Woo Kim is not just a dreamer; he is proven in his prowess as a hole-in-one specialist. As of early 2026, he has recorded six aces in PGA Tour-sanctioned play, making him the leading player in this category since 2016. His impressive record is noteworthy not just for the number of aces but also for the remarkable distances and significance of his successes.
Record-Setting Achievements
Longest Hole-in-One in Major Championship History:
- Achieved at the 2025 PGA Championship using a 5-wood to ace the 252-yard par-3 6th hole at Quail Hollow.
Previous Major Record Holder:
- Kim broke his own record from the 2024 Open Championship, where he carded a 238-yard ace at Royal Troon’s 17th hole.
- Unique Statistical Anomaly:
- He is the first player in PGA Tour history to record a hole-in-one while holding the outright lead of a tournament.
Kim’s combination of extraordinary long-range shots and ability to perform under pressure has solidified his status as a captivating player in contemporary golf.
The WM Phoenix Open continues to captivate golf fans, with the 16th hole serving as the ultimate stage for unforgettable moments, where players like Si Woo Kim can chase both records and dreams, amid the backdrop of enthusiastic spectators.
