WM Phoenix Open Cracks Down on Fan Behavior at Iconic 16th Hole

PHOENIX, AZ—The famous 16th hole at the WM Phoenix Open is known for its rowdy crowds, skyboxes and party-like atmosphere. But this year, tournament officials are cracking down on some bad habits. “It’s the biggest stadium atmosphere in the game of golf. With each passing year, more hole-in-ones and people see how unique this environment is. It continues to get bigger and be a bucket list destination,” said Matt Mooney, the 2025 WM Phoenix Open tournament chairman.

While the fans at the 16th hole tend to get a little crazy, WM officials are making it known that they are cracking down on specific behaviors. That includes not allowing anything to be thrown on the course.

“It’s really all about having a mindset of respect. We talk about respect the fans, respect the players, respect the game. We have to remember this is a PGA tour event,” Mooney said.

The trend started after pro golf player Sam Ryder hit a hole-in-one in 2022. The crowd went crazy and started throwing items, including beer cans, on the course.

“Everybody has seen the Sam Ryder hole-in-one in 2022. Obviously, an amazingly cool imagine to have the spray of beer cans that we saw,” Mooney said.

Now, everywhere you go on at the 16th, there will be these signs that say, ‘if you throw, you go.’ “If you throw, you’re definitely taking matters into your own hands that you might have to leave the golf tournament,” Mooney said.

Although there will be no tossing this year, fans can still have fun on the 16th by celebrating in other ways.

“The main thing is wait until the ball is hit and once it’s in the air, cheer as loud as you can. Give them a Phoenix Open roar and show those players that we’re excited that they’re here,” Mooney said.