Welcome to CaddyBytes’ coverage of the WM Phoenix Open, known worldwide as “The People’s Open” and golf’s greatest party! Established in 1932, this legendary tournament has evolved from a local Arizona event into one of the most iconic and anticipated stops on the PGA Tour schedule, famous for its electric atmosphere and record-breaking crowds.
The WM Phoenix Open features a field of 132 players competing at TPC Scottsdale’s Stadium Course, home to the infamous 16th hole “Coliseum” that hosts over 20,000 boisterous fans in a single day. As a designated event on the PGA Tour with an elevated purse, it attracts the world’s best players who embrace the unique challenge of competing in professional golf’s most raucous environment.
With a rich history spanning over nine decades, the WM Phoenix Open has crowned legendary champions including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan, Phil Mickelson, and more recently, Scottie Scheffler and Hideki Matsuyama. The tournament not only showcases elite golf but also celebrates its “Green Out” tradition and raises millions for Arizona charities through the Thunderbirds organization, making it a true community event with global appeal.
WM Phoenix Open
2026 WM Phoenix Open
Tournament Details
Date: February 6-9, 2026
Location: TPC Scottsdale, Arizona
Field: 132 PGA Tour professionals
Golf's biggest party and most attended tournament.
Tournament DetailsWM Phoenix Open History (1932 - Present)
2026 WM Phoenix Open
Upcoming Event
TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course
Field of 132 PGA Tour players
$20+ million elevated purse
700 FedExCup points to winner
2025 WM Phoenix Open
Recent Champion
TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course
Designated event with elevated status
Features strongest field in tournament history
700 FedExCup points to winner
2020s WM Phoenix Open
Modern Champions
TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course
Scottie Scheffler won in 2023
Hideki Matsuyama champion in 2022, 2024
Brooks Koepka claimed 2021 victory
2010s WM Phoenix Open
Memorable Victories
TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course
Rickie Fowler won in 2019
Gary Woodland claimed 2018 title
Hideki Matsuyama won in 2016, 2017
2000s WM Phoenix Open
Tournament Growth
TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course
WM became title sponsor in 2014
Phil Mickelson won three times (2005, 2013)
J.B. Holmes champion in 2006, 2008
Tournament Format
Designated Event
132 Players Compete
72-hole stroke play format
Top 65 and ties make the cut
700 FedExCup points to winner
Iconic Venue
TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course
Home of the 16th Hole Coliseum
Host venue since 1987
Course Details:
Par 71, 7,261 yards
The People's Open
Golf's Greatest Party
Record-Breaking Crowds
Largest crowds in golf history
16th hole stadium holds 20,000+ fans
Charity fundraising leader
Historic Champions
Legendary Winners
Golf's Greatest
Arnold Palmer won three times
Jack Nicklaus & Ben Hogan winners
Phil Mickelson three-time champion
The WM Phoenix Open Legacy
The WM Phoenix Open has established an unparalleled legacy as professional golf's most unique and electrifying event since its inception in 1932. Originally known as the Arizona Open, the tournament has evolved from a local competition into a global phenomenon that redefines what a golf tournament can be, blending elite competition with an unforgettable fan experience that has earned it the nickname "The Greatest Show on Grass."
The tournament's designation as an elevated event with a $20+ million purse has elevated its competitive status while maintaining its unique identity as golf's ultimate party. With 700 FedExCup points awarded to the champion and mandatory participation from top players, the WM Phoenix Open represents the perfect intersection of elite competition and fan engagement, creating an atmosphere unlike any other in professional sports.
Beyond the competition and celebration, the WM Phoenix Open's philanthropic impact represents one of sports' most significant charitable success stories. Through the Thunderbirds organization, the tournament has raised hundreds of millions for Arizona charities, demonstrating that the world's wildest golf party also has the biggest heart. The "Green Out" on Saturday, where thousands of fans wear green to support environmental initiatives, perfectly captures the tournament's dual identity as both celebration and force for good.
As the tournament continues to thrive at TPC Scottsdale, it maintains its revolutionary spirit while honoring nine decades of tradition. The event's longevity, combined with its record-breaking crowds and profound community impact, has made the WM Phoenix Open a beloved institution that continues to push boundaries while proving that professional golf can be both elite entertainment and meaningful community engagement on a massive scale.