Scottsdale, Arizona, February 4, 2026
The WM Phoenix Open, a highlight on the PGA Tour, showcases its 91st edition in Scottsdale, Arizona. Known for its electrifying atmosphere and passionate crowds, it draws hundreds of thousands of fans each year. The tournament features a packed schedule including practice rounds and the iconic 16th hole, renowned for its stadium-like environment. With a commitment to sustainability, it remains the world’s largest zero-waste event, reflecting a unique blend of golf and community engagement.
Scottsdale, Arizona – The WM Phoenix Open is currently underway in Scottsdale, Arizona, from February 2 to February 8, 2026, continuing its nine-decade legacy as one of the most thrilling and well-attended events on the PGA Tour calendar. Now in its 91st edition, the tournament is celebrated for its unique atmosphere, attracting hundreds of thousands of fans annually and earning it the nickname “The Greatest Show on Grass.”
Tournament Underway with Packed Schedule
The 2026 WM Phoenix Open officially began its tournament week on Monday, February 2nd, with practice rounds for PGA TOUR professionals and the Carlisle Pro-Am at TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course. Tuesday, February 3rd, also featured practice rounds and various activities including the R.S. Hoyt Jr. Family Foundation Dream Day. Today, Wednesday, February 4th, the Annexus Pro-Am is taking place, along with the WHOOP Shot at Glory on the iconic 16th hole. The main 72-hole PGA TOUR event is set to commence on Thursday, February 5th, and will conclude on Sunday, February 8th.
The Enduring Appeal: “The Greatest Show on Grass”
The WM Phoenix Open consistently draws massive crowds, with past events seeing upwards of 600,000 to 700,000 fans, making it the PGA Tour’s best-attended event. A significant part of this appeal is the renowned 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale, which transforms into a stadium-like environment. This par-3 hole is entirely enclosed by grandstands and skyboxes, accommodating thousands of spectators who create an electrifying, often boisterous, atmosphere more akin to a football game than a traditional golf tournament. Recent enhancements to the 16th hole include a new, reusable “Coliseum” structure with wider corridors, more food and beverage options, and a new “Pin-Hi” Club offering a close-up view of the putting surface.
Beyond the festive atmosphere, the tournament is also known for its strong commitment to sustainability. It has been recognized as the world’s largest zero-waste event for 13 consecutive years, diverting 100% of tournament waste from landfills. The event also offsets 100% of its electricity consumption with Renewable Energy Credits and reuses water from kitchens and bars to support local Arizona Tribal Nations.
A Rich History of Golf and Community
The origins of the WM Phoenix Open date back to 1932 when it was known as the Arizona Open. After a brief hiatus, the tournament was revived in 1939, largely thanks to the efforts of Bob Goldwater Sr. and the civic organization, The Thunderbirds. Initially hosted at the Phoenix Country Club, which holds a history older than Arizona’s statehood, the tournament moved to its current home at the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale in 1987. Over its history, the event has featured an illustrious list of champions, including golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan, and Byron Nelson. Current players are also making their mark, with world number one Scottie Scheffler aiming for a potential three-peat victory at TPC Scottsdale this year.
Frequently Asked Questions about the WM Phoenix Open
When is the 2026 WM Phoenix Open taking place?
The 2026 WM Phoenix Open tournament week is from February 2 to February 8, 2026, with the main 72-hole PGA TOUR event running from Thursday, February 5th, to Sunday, February 8th.
Where is the WM Phoenix Open held?
The tournament is held at the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Why is the WM Phoenix Open considered so thrilling?
The WM Phoenix Open is known for its unique, high-energy atmosphere, particularly at the stadium-like 16th hole, which can host thousands of vocal fans. It is often referred to as “The Greatest Show on Grass” due to its large crowds and festive environment.
What is the history of the WM Phoenix Open?
The tournament originated in 1932 as the Arizona Open. After a pause, it was revived in 1939 and was initially played at Phoenix Country Club before moving to TPC Scottsdale in 1987.
What is the 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale known for?
The 16th hole is famous for its stadium-like setup, completely enclosed by grandstands and skyboxes, creating a boisterous and unparalleled fan experience on the PGA Tour.
Is the WM Phoenix Open involved in any sustainability efforts?
Yes, the WM Phoenix Open is recognized as the world’s largest zero-waste event, diverting 100% of its waste from landfills for 13 consecutive years. It also offsets all electricity consumption with Renewable Energy Credits and reuses water.
Key Features of the WM Phoenix Open’s Enduring Thrill
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| “The Greatest Show on Grass” | Nickname reflecting its unique, high-energy atmosphere. |
| Massive Crowds | Attracts 600,000-700,000 fans, making it the PGA Tour’s best-attended event. |
| Iconic 16th Hole (The Coliseum) | Stadium-like par-3 hole enclosed by grandstands, providing a unique and boisterous fan experience. |
| Rich History | Established in 1932; hosted golf legends; transitioned from Phoenix Country Club to TPC Scottsdale. |
| Sustainability Leadership | World’s largest zero-waste event, diverting 100% of waste from landfills and focusing on green initiatives. |
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