Phoenix Open PROMISES to make changes in response to recent incidents at TPC Scottsdale

Phoenix Open management are reported to make some adjustments in response to recent incidents at TPC Scottsdale.

Phoenix Open PROMISES to make changes in response to recent incidents at TPC Scottsdale

Chance Cozby (Image via WM Phoenix Open)

The Waste Management Phoenix Open 2024 might have concluded, but it still continues to be the talk of the town and not for good reasons. The event was marred by a number of incidents which has left a damaging mark on it.

The organizer of the WM Phoenix Open, Chance Cozby has now assured everyone that the mishaps from last weekend will not be repeated. The lively atmosphere at TPC Scottsdale got a bit out of hand, with some unpleasant interactions between players and spectators.  

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There incidents talked about included fights between fans, some spectators falling from the stands, and excessive alcohol consumption. To make matters worse, one of the most notable incidents occurred on the 16th hole when a woman fell from the stands. The situation on Saturday showed no signs of improvement as the gates had to be closed and alcohol sales were halted.

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On Monday, Cozby addressed the concerns surrounding this year’s event. He assured viewers that the tournament is committed to rectifying the issues and making significant improvements and emphasized that the upcoming WM Phoenix Open in 2025 will serve as a pivotal moment for the tournament and their organization

I think that you will see a complete operational change of how we manage, really, our Friday and Saturday, but the entire week. We're very proud of what we've built... But we don't like what happened on Saturday. The players don't like what happened on Saturday... so, nothing is off the table.
Chance Cozby on fan behavior at WM Phoenix Open as per Golf Digest.

Zach Johnson wants the disruptive fans to be more mature

If there was one person who felt that change was needed at the WM Phoenix Open then it was definitely Zach Johnson. The former U.S Ryder Cup Captain had a tough time at the course with the fans this past week.

Zach Johnson [Image Credit: Imago]
Zach Johnson [Image Credit: Imago]

Johnson could be seen getting annoyed by some fans who were being loud. It appears that their voices were distracting him which affected his game. Check out a video from X below where Johnson gets into fight with fans.

Following this incident, Johnson would attack the fan behavior at slammed the tournament. “This tournament has been inappropriate and crossed the line since I’ve been on tour,” the 2007 Masters champion said in his response.

It now remains to be seen what changes will be made to this event to prevent such incidents. Johnson on the other hand might receive some hostile reception from the crowd the next time he is at the TPC Scottsdale course.

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