WM Phoenix Open Recognized as Event of the Year

Fans enjoying the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament.

Phoenix AZ, December 11, 2025

The WM Phoenix Open has been awarded the prestigious PGA TOUR’s ‘Event of the Year’ title for the sixth time, highlighting its commitment to community engagement, sustainability, and charitable contributions. Organized at TPC Scottsdale, the tournament emphasizes ‘Better, Not Bigger’ to enhance the experience for fans and players alike. The event shines with operational enhancements, substantial charitable efforts, and a focus on environmental responsibility, further solidifying its status within the international golfing community.

WM Phoenix Open: Celebrating Six-Time “Event of the Year”

The prestigious PGA TOUR award highlights community engagement and sustainability.

Phoenix, AZ – The WM Phoenix Open has once again made waves in the golfing world by being named the PGA TOUR’s “Event of the Year” for the sixth time. This remarkable achievement showcases the tournament’s exceptional commitment to enhancing both fan and player experiences, and its efforts toward charitable initiatives and sponsor integration. Under the capable guidance of local organizations, particularly the Thunderbirds, the event has established itself as a beacon of civic excellence.

Organized annually at TPC Scottsdale, the WM Phoenix Open thrives due to the dedicated efforts of local leaders and the vibrant communities that participate. The tournament’s motto, “Better, Not Bigger,” emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement over expansion, showcasing how local initiative can lead to enhanced experiences for both players and spectators alike.

Operational Enhancements for a Premium Experience

The 2025 edition of the WM Phoenix Open saw many operational improvements designed to elevate the overall event experience. Key enhancements included expanded walkways, redesigned entry points, and reimagined hospitality areas, all aimed at providing greater accessibility and comfort to attendees. Such upgrades reflect the proactive approach taken by local organizers to streamline event logistics and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, fostering a more enjoyable environment regardless of the crowd size.

Sustainability at the Forefront

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of the WM Phoenix Open’s operations, securing its status as one of the world’s largest certified zero-waste sporting events. In 2025, the tournament’s Working For Tomorrow Fund generated over $420,000 for environmental projects within Arizona. This dedication to green initiatives not only enhances the event’s appeal but also highlights the importance of environmental responsibility amidst growing societal awareness.

Charitable Contributions and Community Impact

The impact of the WM Phoenix Open extends well beyond the golf course. As part of its commitment to charitable contributions, the tournament raises significant funds that benefit various local organizations and projects, fortifying community bonds. The active involvement of the Thunderbirds, the managing entity of the event, demonstrates how grassroots leadership can lead to innovative philanthropic efforts, showcasing the strength of collective civic engagement.

A Historic Victory: Thomas Detry

The 2025 tournament marked a significant milestone in golfing history as Thomas Detry became the first Belgian golfer to win a PGA TOUR event. His victory at the WM Phoenix Open not only brought pride to his home country but also underscored the tournament’s international allure, attracting participants from around the globe. This global participation enhances the event’s reputation, further establishing it as a premier destination on the PGA TOUR schedule.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the WM Phoenix Open

Scheduled to return from February 2–8, 2026, the WM Phoenix Open promises to build upon its established legacy as “The People’s Open.” As the tournament gears up for another year, the continued emphasis on innovation, community engagement, and sustainability sets a high standard not just for PGA TOUR events but for sporting events worldwide. The accolades received and the enthusiastic participation serve as a testament to its evolving significance in both the local and broader golfing community.

PGA TOUR Recognition

The PGA TOUR’s “Best Of” awards also acknowledged other tournaments for their exceptional contributions, showcasing a diverse array of outstanding events across the board. The recognition given to various tournaments illustrates a collective push towards excellence and innovation in professional golf, with the WM Phoenix Open standing prominently among its peers.

Conclusion

The WM Phoenix Open’s consistency in being recognized as “Event of the Year” not only underscores its importance within the PGA TOUR but also reflects the dedication of local community leaders and organizers to foster an engaging and responsible event. As Phoenix continues to support local activities that enhance civic pride through sports, it serves as an example of how individual initiative and minimal bureaucracy can promote growth and connection within the community. Mark your calendars for the 2026 tournament and consider supporting this remarkable tradition that embodies the spirit of Phoenix.

FAQ

What is the WM Phoenix Open recognized for?

The WM Phoenix Open has been honored as the PGA TOUR’s “Event of the Year” for the sixth time, including the fourth in the last five years.

What are the key operational enhancements made during the 2025 tournament?

Operational enhancements for the 2025 tournament included expanded walkways, redesigned entry points, and reimagined hospitality areas.

What is the significance of the tournament’s sustainability efforts?

The WM Phoenix Open maintains its status as one of the world’s largest certified zero-waste sporting events.

How much did the Working For Tomorrow Fund generate for environmental projects?

In 2025, the tournament’s Working For Tomorrow Fund generated over $420,000 for environmental projects in Arizona.

When is the next WM Phoenix Open scheduled?

The WM Phoenix Open is scheduled to return to TPC Scottsdale from February 2–8, 2026.

Feature Details
Event Recognition PGA TOUR’s “Event of the Year” title for six times
Operational Enhancements Expanded walkways, redesigned entry points, reimagined hospitality areas
Sustainability Over $420,000 generated for environmental projects
Community Impact Civic engagement through local charity contributions
Next Event Dates February 2–8, 2026

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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER

The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.

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