Phoenix Open "The Golf Liberation Zone Has Reopened"... What About the Colosseum Hole?

Alcohol and Loud Cheering Allowed 'Reverse Thinking Marketing', Stand for Up to 30,000 Installed at 16th Hole "Roman Era Gladiator Colosseum"

The battleground of the 'Golf Liberation Zone,' Scottsdale TPC 16th hole at the Phoenix Open.

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "The golf liberation zone has opened."

On the night of the 10th (Korean time), the Waste Management Phoenix Open (total prize money $8.2 million) of the PGA Tour will kick off at Scottsdale TPC in Arizona, USA (par 71, 7,261 yards). It is interesting because it is the only stage in the global golf world where drinking and loud cheering are allowed. The gallery drinks beer and chat, and if a shot is unsatisfactory, they even boo. This is why it has earned the nickname "liberation zone."

The organizers bet on a gallery-centered "reverse marketing" strategy, which actually became a driving force attracting up to 700,000 people. Spectators shout and move around the course, where players used to not even be allowed to breathe quietly during setup. Waitresses working in casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada, come to Phoenix to work part-time serving drinks. It is noteworthy that last year, due to the impact of COVID-19, attendance was limited to 5,000 people per day.

This year, it is fully open again. The highlight is the 16th hole (par 3). A huge three-story stand that can accommodate up to 30,000 people is installed, resembling the Roman Colosseum gladiator arena. Naturally, players feel the pressure. As soon as they step onto the teeing ground, their every move is closely captured on a giant screen while hooligan-level cheers pour out. Although it is only 163 yards, easily birdieable with a 9-iron, absurd shots often occur.

Andrew Johnston distributing gifts to the gallery at the Phoenix Open battleground, Scottsdale TPC 16th hole.

Therefore, players prepare gifts such as hats, golf balls, and sunglasses to pay a kind of "toll." On the passage to the 17th hole, interactive communication is possible as players and the gallery take commemorative photos together. The par 4, 17th hole is usually set at 332 yards, allowing for a "one-on" shot, adding more spectacle. It is a signature hole where players must make at least a birdie. A water hazard lurks to the left of the green, posing a deadly threat for anything worse than a par.

The 18th hole (par 4) is the final battleground. The left side of the fairway is a lake, and bunkers are densely positioned along the route to the green, making the final push for victory difficult. Every night, rock concerts are held in a nearby open space, creating a festival atmosphere throughout the tournament. Last year, Brooks Koepka (USA) won by one stroke, powered by a 6-under-par final day performance. For domestic fans, it is regrettable that Lee Kyung-hoon (31) finished second by one stroke. The "return match" begins.

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