The Greatest Show on Grass returns from Feb. 6-12 at TPC Scottsdale as the WM Phoenix Open emerges bigger and better than ever with new amenities to enhance the fan experience, a top-notch music lineup, and an unprecedented competitive commitment from the PGA TOUR’s top 20 players from its Player Impact Program.
Along with an elevated prize purse of $20 million—that’s more than double last year’s purse—the tournament joins 12 others on the tour with this kind of commitment, which will draw a player talent and notoriety pool that also promises to be unprecedented.
Having debuted in 1932, the tournament is in its 88th year, making it the fifth oldest on the PGA TOUR. The inclusive and more laid-back vibe is one reason why it is known as “The People’s Open,” in addition to drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees over the week-long event.
“It has the largest attendance of any event on the tour, so ‘The People’s Open’ is really a perfect phrase for our tournament,” says WM Phoenix Open Tournament Chairman Pat Williams. “You’re going to get access to great golf shots, great people watching, and to have that many people come out, it's truly a tournament for everyone.”
In fact, with the caliber of golfers, concerts by high-profile music artists, and energetic party atmosphere— especially at the famous 16th Hole—it has become a bucket list item for many golf fans.
For a single-day event, Williams estimates that perhaps other than the Kentucky Derby or NASCAR’s Indianapolis 500, there are likely no more fans gathered to watch an event in a single spot than on the Saturday of the Open.
And the new features were created to make that overall fan experience even that much more memorable.
Here’s what fans can expect to see.
Fan Zone
Double in size from last year’s space, the Fan Zone now boasts two giant video boards on each end, giving attendees more room to gather, mingle, and enjoy food and beverages while not missing any of the action.
Merchandise Tent
Located near the new Fan Zone, this also will be bigger and better than last year, going from 5,000 to 25,000 square feet. There will be more shirts, accessories, and mementos, and more room for guests to shop and browse. This represents a consolidation of small tents that were located on the premises, creating a centralized, giant one-stop-shop experience.
Water Bottle Stations
Bring your own water bottle or buy one from the new Merchandise Tent and fill it up at one of the new water bottle stations scattered throughout the site, including on either side of the Fan Zone. This makes it easy for fans to stay hydrated in the sun while sipping on beer, wine, or cocktails, without having to pay for a bottle of water.
“Having the water stations around the course is also an effort to support sustainability,” Williams says.
New Entrance
In preparation for the future DraftKings Sports Bar and Restaurant that’s under construction for 2024, a temporary new entrance will be in the same area as previous years but in a slightly different format with a new pathway.
What’s not new but is noteworthy?
The Fairway House
At the 12th Hole, this lesser-known venue is open to general admission fans and offers a comfortable shaded area that offers a great view of the 12th and 13th holes. Spectators can relax, have a seat, and grab a beverage and snack while catching the action.
“It’s a hidden gem located in a spot on a hill, so it’s great for viewing the corridor down to the 12th hole,” Williams says. “It’s a great spot for fans to sit for a moment, an hour, or an afternoon.”
Charity
The open and tournament host The Thunderbirds raise money for Arizona charities, most of which provide programs that benefit youth. The 2022 WM Phoenix Open raised nearly $10.5 million for charity, and The Thunderbirds have raised more than $176 million in the tournament’s history.
WMPhoenixOpen.com
The music lineup this year features:
Concert in the Coliseum
Feb. 4: The second annual Concert in the Coliseum, held on the famous 16th Hole, features Maroon 5 and Walker Hayes. Fans enter through the main entrance, and along the way to the main attraction, can enjoy live entertainment, beverage sampling, and fun activities.
Coors Light Birds Nest Concert Series
The legendary Birds Nest offers its VIP guests a nightclub experience with A-list performances in a high-energy party environment after the sun goes down. On tap for the four-night concert series are:
Feb. 8: MacKenzie
Feb. 9: Jason Aldean, with special guest Macenzie Porter
Feb. 10: Machine Gun Kelly, with special guests
Feb. 11: Chainsmokers, with special guest Gryffin