Rider Phoenix Open Day 3 "Colosseum Hole-in-One Explosion"..."Feeling Like World No.1"

Sam Ryder is cheering after making a hole-in-one on the 16th hole during the third day of the Phoenix Open. Scottsdale, USA=Getty Images/Multibits

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist] "Colosseum Hole-in-One."

Sam Ryder (USA) made a hole-in-one on the third day of the Waste Management Phoenix Open (total prize money $8.2 million) held on the 13th (Korean time) at Scottsdale TPC (par 71, 7,261 yards) in Scottsdale, Arizona, USA. It was on the famous 16th hole, known as the ‘Colosseum Hole.’ He took a 54-degree wedge from 124 yards. This is the first time in seven years since Francesco Molinari (Italy) in 2015.

This tournament is especially unique in the global golf world as it is the only stage that allows drinking and loud cheering. The 16th hole is even more remarkable with a massive three-tiered stand that can accommodate up to 30,000 spectators, resembling the Roman Colosseum. This creates a sense of intimidation for the players. Although a 9-iron can easily secure a birdie, many careless shots occur. At the moment of Ryder’s hole-in-one, the gallery cheered while throwing water bottles and beer cans. He shared a high-five with his caddie and commented that it felt like "being ranked number one in the world."

It is interesting that the PGA Tour introduced ‘the greatest hole-in-ones ever’ ahead of this tournament. The number one is Tiger Woods’ hole-in-one during the third round in 1997. From 152 yards, he hit a 9-iron shot; the ball bounced twice on the green and went straight into the hole. At that time, Woods had just joined the pros in 1996 and quickly won two tournaments, and in January 1997, he secured his third career win at the Mercedes Championship. At 22 years old, he already showcased his stature as the ‘next generation number one.’

After Sam Ryder's hole-in-one on the 16th hole during the third day of the Phoenix Open, officials are clearing away water bottles and beer cans thrown by the gallery. Scottsdale, USA = Getty Images / Multibitz

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