The First Look: WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale

The WM Phoenix Open is almost here, and once again TPC Scottsdale is ready to host one of the loudest, most unpredictable weeks in professional golf. Every season has its turning points, and this tournament is always one of them.

Big crowds, aggressive play, and a stadium atmosphere make this event feel different the moment coverage begins.

The Course: TPC Scottsdale

TPC Scottsdale rewards bold play but punishes hesitation. Wide fairways invite drivers, but firm greens and tricky pin placements demand precision on approach shots. Players who control spin and distance tend to separate themselves quickly.

The layout encourages scoring, yet mistakes can pile up fast if players get careless. That balance is what keeps leaderboards tight and momentum swinging throughout the week.

The Hole Everyone Is Watching

The par 3 16th hole remains the centerpiece of the tournament. It is the most famous hole in golf for a reason. The stadium setting turns a simple iron shot into a full pressure moment, even for the best players in the world.

Birdies are celebrated. Misses are not ignored. And no lead ever feels safe standing on that tee.

The Favorites Entering the Week

Several of the game’s biggest names arrive in Scottsdale looking to make noise.

Scottie Scheffler continues to set the standard with elite ball striking and calm under pressure. His ability to stay patient fits this course well.

Brooks Koepka always commands attention in high energy environments. When the stakes rise, his comfort level often does too.

Xander Schauffele brings consistency and balance that play well on scoring courses. If he gets hot with the putter, he becomes difficult to chase down.

Why This Event Matters Early in the Season

The WM Phoenix Open often reveals who is ready to contend consistently and who is still finding rhythm. Strong performances here tend to carry momentum into the spring stretch of the schedule.

Players who manage crowds, energy, and distractions successfully usually show up again later in the season when pressure increases.

‍What Golfers at Home Watch For

While pros battle for position, everyday golfers focus on details.

They watch:

• Club choices into firm greens
• Shot shapes under pressure
• Decision making off the tee
• How players manage momentum

This tournament is a reminder that aggressive golf still requires discipline.

Crowds Change Everything

Few tournaments feel as alive as the WM Phoenix Open. The noise, the movement, and the energy impact even the most experienced players. Those who embrace it thrive. Those who fight it struggle.

Handling the environment becomes just as important as handling the golf course.