The WM Phoenix Open 2026: The "People's Open" Reimagined

Introduction: Golf's Greatest Party Returns Bigger & Bolder

Welcome to the WM Phoenix Open 2026, where the thunderous roars of the infamous 16th hole will echo across TPC Scottsdale once again. Known as "The Greatest Show on Grass," this tournament transcends traditional golf, blending elite PGA TOUR competition with an unprecedented festival atmosphere. In 2026, the event promises to be more sustainable, technologically advanced, and electrifying than ever, all while maintaining its title as the most-attended golf tournament in the world. This is your complete guide to the spectacle.

Tournament Essentials: Dates, Field & Purse

Dates: February 2 - 8, 2026 (Tournament Rounds: Feb 5-8)
Location: TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course), Scottsdale, Arizona
2026 Purse: Projected at $20+ Million, with one of the largest winner's shares on the PGA TOUR schedule.
Defending Champion: [Will update with 2025 winner's name]
Field Spotlight: Expect the world's top players. All eyes will be on whether local hero and fan favorite, Scottie Scheffler, can reclaim the throne. Rising stars and long-hitting pros who thrive in the energetic environment will also be key contenders.

What's New for 2026: Innovations & Upgrades

The WM Phoenix Open is never static. For 2026, organizers are pushing the envelope on sustainability and fan experience.

1. Zero-Waste Ambition Takes Center Stage

As a flagship event for title sponsor Waste Management, the 2026 tournament is targeting a 95% waste diversion rate from landfills through:

The "Recycling Rally" Initiative: Interactive, gamified recycling stations where fans can compete for prizes.
Fully Compostable Serveware: Every vendor will use WM-certified compostable containers and utensils.
Water Conservation Tech: Advanced sensor-based irrigation on the course, reducing water usage by an estimated 30% compared to 2020 baselines.

2. Enhanced Fan Experience: Tech Meets Tradition

The 16th Hole "Metaverse Gauntlet": A new, immersive digital experience. Fans at home can put on VR headsets and experience the deafening pressure of hitting into the coliseum-style 16th, complete with virtual crowd reactions.
Upgraded "Bird's Nest" Concert Venue: The marquee party tent features state-of-the-art sound, sustainable cooling systems, and a 2026 lineup headlined by major country and rock acts (rumors swirl about a possible Zac Brown Band return).
AI-Powered App: The official tournament app will offer real-time crowd flow analytics, suggest shortest concession lines, provide player tracking with augmented reality overlays, and even predict the "rowdiness level" on key holes.

The Heart of the Action: Key Holes & Fan Zones

The Infamous 16th Hole: "The Coliseum"

The fully enclosed, stadium-style par-3 remains the tournament's pulsating heart. In 2026:

Capacity: Expanded to over 20,000 delirious fans.
New Traditions: Expect creative, coordinated chants and costume themes organized via fan social media groups.
Player Reaction Cams: Ultra-high-definition cameras will capture every grimace, smile, and eye-roll from players, streaming instantly to screens around the course.

The "Green Zone" (Holes 15-18)

The closing stretch is a non-stop party:

17th Hole Moat: The party continues around the risk-reward par-4, with new premium viewing decks.
18th Hole Canyon: The dramatic amphitheater finish, where tournaments are won and lost amid roaring crowds.

New for 2026: The "Sustainability Summit" at the 2nd Green

An interactive fan zone dedicated to WM's sustainability mission, featuring educational exhibits, tech demonstrations, and a "Carbon Footprint Putt-Putt" course.

Players to Watch & Storylines

The Quest for History: Can anyone challenge Scottie Scheffler's modern dominance at this event? Will a young gun use the energy to claim a breakout win?
The "Phoenix Open Player": Look for long hitters and charismatic personalities who feed off the crowd—think Victor Hovland, Max Homa, or a rising collegiate star making their debut.
The Ryder Cup Effect: With the 2025 Ryder Cup fresh in memory, watch for American and European team members to carry that team-event energy into the individual, fan-driven chaos of TPC Scottsdale.

Fan Guide: Tickets, Tips & Must-Dos

Ticketing: General Admission ("Grounds") tickets remain the classic experience. Premium hospitality packages (e.g., Clubhouse, Skyboxes on 16 & 18) sell out months in advance. 2026 Tip: New dynamic pricing via the official app.
What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. Embrace the spirit—golf attire is fine, but creative, fun outfits are celebrated (within decorum guidelines).
Must-Do Experience: Arrive early on a weekday to walk the front nine and appreciate the golf, then dive into the stadium atmosphere on the back nine. Participate in the 16th hole traditions respectfully but enthusiastically.
Getting Around: Rideshare is highly recommended. The tournament's partnership with Lyft offers dedicated "Green Drop-Off" zones.

Beyond the Tournament: Economic & Charitable Impact

The WM Phoenix Open is a powerhouse for Arizona:

Charitable Driver: The event has historically generated over $200 million for local charities. The 2026 goal is to set a new record, supported by a text-to-donate campaign tied to every eagle made.
Economic Engine: Projected to inject over $500 million into the Greater Phoenix economy, filling hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.

Conclusion: More Than a Golf Tournament

The WM Phoenix Open 2026 is a cultural phenomenon. It's where birdies are met with explosions of noise, where sustainability action meets mass entertainment, and where the barrier between fan and player thrillingly dissolves. It’s a test of nerve for the pros and a pilgrimage for fans. Whether you're coming for the world-class golf, the epic party, or to witness a model of sustainable mega-event management, "The People's Open" delivers an experience unmatched in the sports world.

Prepare for the roars. The greatest show on grass is back.