The 2026 WM Phoenix Open officially kicked off today, February 5, at TPC Scottsdale, solidifying its reputation as the “Greatest Show on Grass.” As the PGA Tour’s most attended event, the tournament has transformed the Sonoran Desert into a high-energy hub of professional golf and entertainment, with an estimated 700,000 fans expected to pass through the gates by Sunday.
Early morning temperatures in the low 50s didn’t deter the “Breakfast Club”—the thousands of fans who sprinted to the iconic 16th hole as soon as gates opened at 7:00 AM. By the time the first groups reached the par-3 coliseum, the 20,000-seat stadium was already at capacity, echoing with the traditional boos for missed greens and thunderous roars for birdies.
Tournament Outlook and Field Strength
This year’s field remains one of the strongest on the early 2026 calendar. Defending champions and top-ranked stars are navigating a course that remains firm and fast. While the 16th hole captures the headlines, the closing stretch—including the drivable par-4 17th and the water-lined 18th—is expected to provide the usual Sunday drama. Tournament organizers have noted that the total purse for 2026 remains highly competitive, attracting a mix of veteran major winners and rising stars from the collegiate ranks.
Sustainability and the “Green” Mission
Title sponsor Waste Management (WM) continues to push the boundaries of zero-waste initiatives. For the 2026 event, the tournament has expanded its renewable energy footprint, utilizing solar-powered hospitality tents and an advanced water reclamation system to maintain the course. Since 2013, the event has successfully diverted 100% of tournament waste from landfills through recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy programs.
Logistics and Fan Experience
Local authorities in Scottsdale have implemented updated traffic patterns for the 2026 weekend to accommodate the massive influx of visitors. Fans are encouraged to use rideshare services, with dedicated drop-off zones located near the main entrance. For those attending the Coors Light Birds Nest tonight, country music headliners are set to take the stage at 8:30 PM, continuing the tradition of high-profile concerts adjacent to the tournament grounds.
Pro Tip for Attendees: If you aren’t in line for the 16th hole by 6:00 AM on Friday or Saturday, your chances of securing a seat in the general admission section are slim. The “Hill” at the 18th hole offers the best alternative for viewing the finishing putts of the leaders.
Stay tuned to USA Daily for live leaderboard updates and nightly recaps from the desert.