The 2025 WM Phoenix Open, the 90th edition of “The Greatest Show on Grass,” promises a thrilling blend of world-class golf, electrifying entertainment, and a unique spectator experience from February 3rd to 9th at TPC Scottsdale. Building on its legacy as a five-time PGA TOUR Tournament of the Year, the tournament aims to elevate the fan experience while addressing challenges encountered in the previous year. With a substantial $9.2 million purse, the competition will see 132 players contend for the coveted title, the $1,656,000 winner’s share, and 500 FedExCup points. This year’s tournament is poised to be a spectacle, incorporating lessons learned from the past and introducing innovative enhancements for future success.
The 2024 WM Phoenix Open, while boasting remarkable attendance and excitement, encountered unprecedented challenges due to inclement weather. Heavy rainfall transformed the typically spectator-friendly hills and banks of TPC Scottsdale into treacherous terrain, creating bottlenecks and safety concerns. While the tournament has historically been lauded for its accessibility and vast viewing areas, the heavy rains exposed vulnerabilities in crowd management, especially on Saturday, traditionally the busiest day. Coupled with the increased attendance, the weather-related congestion contributed to heightened rowdiness among some spectators, leading to disruptions and safety incidents. This experience prompted a swift and decisive response from the Thunderbirds, the tournament organizers, to implement significant changes for the 2025 event.
The Thunderbirds, committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all, have taken proactive steps to address the issues that arose in 2024. Among the most significant changes are the implementation of a fully digital ticketing system, eliminating third-party vendors and requiring tickets to be purchased for specific days. This measure aims to provide better control over attendance and facilitate crowd management. Furthermore, a new entrance gate near the 18th hole will help distribute the flow of spectators, and the widening of course walkways, especially around the heavily trafficked 16th and 18th holes, aims to alleviate congestion. A cap on attendance for Friday and Saturday, along with increased ticket prices, reflects the organization’s commitment to prioritizing safety and managing crowd size effectively.
Beyond crowd management, the Thunderbirds are focusing on enhancing the overall spectator experience. Venue upgrades include the creation of more accessible viewing areas and expanded concession options at less crowded holes, encouraging a more even distribution of spectators throughout the course. These improvements are intended to provide a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for all attendees. These changes, coupled with the tournament’s ongoing commitment to charitable giving, underscore the Thunderbirds’ dedication to balancing the entertainment aspect of the event with the safety and comfort of players and fans alike.
The entertainment lineup for the 2025 WM Phoenix Open promises to be just as captivating as the golf itself. The Coors Light Birds Nest, a staple of the tournament week, will host four nights of high-energy performances featuring a diverse array of musical acts. From country stars like Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani headlining the Concert in the Coliseum at the iconic 16th hole to a mix of rock, country, and electronic music at the Birds Nest, there’s something to suit every musical taste. The tournament’s commitment to providing top-tier entertainment alongside world-class golf reinforces its reputation as a truly unique and multifaceted event.
Despite the challenges faced in 2024, the WM Phoenix Open remains a powerful force for good in the local community. The Thunderbirds announced a record-breaking $17.5 million raised for charity from the 2024 tournament, surpassing previous years’ contributions despite the weather-related disruptions. This achievement underscores the event’s enduring commitment to philanthropy and its significant impact on the Valley of the Sun. Over the 15 years of WM’s title sponsorship, the tournament has raised an impressive $142 million, with over $208 million raised throughout its 89-year history, demonstrating its enduring legacy of charitable giving. The Thunderbirds, driven by their mission to promote the Valley of the Sun, continue to leverage the tournament as a platform for positive community impact.
The 2025 WM Phoenix Open marks a turning point in the tournament’s history, embracing both its vibrant atmosphere and the need for enhanced crowd management and safety. While some golfers have voiced concerns about the rowdiness, others, like Taylor Montgomery, relish the energetic engagement of the fans, viewing it as a positive evolution in the sport. The Thunderbirds are confident that the changes implemented for the 2025 tournament will strike a balance between maintaining the event’s unique energy and ensuring a safe and respectful experience for players, spectators, and the community. This delicate balancing act will be crucial to preserving the tournament’s legacy as “The People’s Open” while adapting to the evolving landscape of professional golf and fan engagement.
