PGA Tour pros like Justin Thomas back Phoenix Open revamp despite fan backlash and call for controlled craziness.
PGA Tour events are considered to have a serious atmosphere, but there is one event that cancels out all the claims, i.e., the WM Phoenix Open. Earlier, an ex-PGA Tour golfer, Phil Mickelson, made it to headlines with his comparison between the two leagues of LIV Golf’s easygoing atmosphere and the PGA Tour’s strict rules. Until 2024, the People’s Open was considered the most easygoing event where families, including kids, could join in and enjoy golfing without restrictions, unlike the other PGA Tour events.
However, the 2025 edition following the incidents of 2024 and maybe 2023 has led to some changes that the fans are not liking. Recently the ‘zero tolerance policy’ was introduced by the management to respect the game and avoid interruption to the course which happened the previous year.
Despite fans opposing the new rules, the golfers have supported it. Recently, golfers participating at the WM Phoenix Open 2025 have shared their thoughts on the event and new rules with Golf Channel. The latest video published on YouTube shared how Billy Horschel has committed to the security point of view for the event.
He expressed, saying, “I think it got to a point where it got a little too crazy out here. Craziness in the sense of stuff being said to the players, going a little bit beyond crossing the line a little bit.” While continuing, Horschel also shared about his love for the event and how he has been playing the event since he became a tour member.
Even though the event is one of the most exciting ones, last year, it made Horschel scold a fan, saying, “Shut the hell up.” Talking ahead, he shared, “It got to a point where they needed to address it, and I don’t think they need to pull back a lot. They just need some subtle changes.”
Along with him, another American professional has joined in sharing about the event. Justin Thomas, who finished T12 last year, said, “Last year, it was a one-off year.” Speaking further, he addressed the issues that were encountered at the event, including the weather, fans getting out of control and the Super Bowl happening.
“But it also did get a little out of hand,” he said. Despite that, with the changes made lately, Thomas has shown faith in the safety and steps taken by the authorities. There are other golfers too who joined Thomas and Horschel in sharing views for the event.
Sam Ryder and Gary Woodland expressed about the Phoenix Open
The 2024 edition of the People’s Open dealt with unforeseen weather changes, which was unexpected, but fans’ safety is important, as per Sam Ryder. Sharing on fans’ experience, he said, “I don’t want anything negative, a negative light to shine on the event. It should be really fun and bring a lot of fans. As long as everyone is safe, I think it will be great.”
Gary Woodland, 6-time PGA Tour winner, has also noted that the event is unique in offering the fans a different atmosphere, but he also pointed out the changes made this year. He said, “They have tightened it up a little, but you don’t want to take away from what this tournament is. This tournament is crazy, and we’re expecting some good craziness.”
The unique experience of playing and attending as fans at the Phoenix Open is unique. Now with the change in rules, on one hand, fans are seen opposing it, on the other, golfers have shown faith in it. What are your thoughts on the new rules introduced for the 2025 Phoenix Open? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
