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WM Phoenix Open says changes are coming to the golf tournament after rowdy 2024 event

People in rain gear walk around
Anna De La Cruz/Cronkite News
Phoenix Open fans battle the elements Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024.

Managers of the WM Phoenix Open say they are looking to make improvements for the 2025 event.

That will include an additional entrance, all-digital tickets, improved walking areas and upgraded general-admission venues for fans.

"We have doubled the size of the cart path width. You know, I think since we do get inclement weather, having additional room for people to be able to move around is an important consideration," said Matt Mooney, tournament chairman.

The Scottsdale golf tournament is dubbed "The People’s Open" and it’s known for being a little different than the rest of the golf circuit. Its 16th hole is billed as “the most exciting hole on the PGA tour," and it’s famous for being rowdy, fun and packed with partiers.

This year during the February event, organizers had to stop alcohol sales and close the entrance gates due to massive, unruly crowds.

KJZZ's Lauren Gilger contributed to this report.

Greg Hahne started as a news intern at KJZZ in 2020 and returned as a field correspondent in 2021. He learned his love for radio by joining Arizona State University's Blaze Radio, where he worked on the production team.
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