[Golf Photo] Scottsdale 16th Hole "This is the Colosseum"... The 'Golf Liberation Zone' Reopens

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] ○... "This is the Colosseum."

On the 11th (Korean time), the opening day of the PGA Tour Waste Management Phoenix Open (total prize money $8.2 million) took place at the 16th hole (par 3) of Scottsdale TPC (par 71, 7,261 yards) in Arizona, USA. This tournament is famous worldwide in the golf community for its unique 'reverse marketing' approach that allows drinking and loud cheering. The gallery drinks beer and chats, and if a shot is unsatisfactory, they even boo.

Last year, due to the impact of COVID-19, attendance was limited to 5,000 people per day, but this year it has been fully reopened. From the first day, large crowds of spectators have gathered. The 16th hole, in particular, features a massive three-tiered stand that can accommodate up to 30,000 people, resembling the Colosseum of ancient Rome. This is why players feel pressured by the hooligan-level cheers. Although it is only 163 yards and a 9-iron can easily make a birdie, many careless shots occur.