'Golf Liberation Zone' Phoenix Open "Direct Hit from COVID-19~"

Allowing Drinking and Loud Voices 'Reverse Thinking Marketing', Next Year 'Gallery Restrictions' Following Quarantine Guidelines

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "Next year will be quiet."

The PGA Tour Phoenix Open, known as the 'golf liberation zone,' seems to be taking a direct hit from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). On the 2nd (Korean time), Golf Digest USA predicted that "spectator attendance in 2021 will be limited." It is famous in the global golf community as the only place that allows drinking and loud cheering through its 'contrarian marketing.' In fact, at a golf course where players could not even breathe audibly during setup moments, alcohol is sold, and galleries shout and move around.

This is the driving force behind attracting as many as 650,000 attendees. However, the health authorities of Scottsdale TPC in Phoenix, Arizona, the host location, are reluctant to have more than 100,000 spectators per day as in previous years due to the recent spread of COVID-19 in the United States. Scott Jenkins, the tournament director, also explained, "Fans are important, but the safety and health of spectators, players, staff, and volunteers come first."

The scale will be reduced up to the 'signature hole,' the 16th hole (par 3). The stands surrounding the hole, which can hold up to 30,000 people, create an atmosphere reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum gladiator arena, and the passageway to the 17th hole is a symbol of the Phoenix Open where players and galleries can interact by taking commemorative photos. The first three tournaments in January?the Sony Open, the American Express, and the Farmers Insurance Open?have all been decided to be held without spectators.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.