The 16th Hole at TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course

The 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona stands as one of the most iconic and electrifying holes in professional golf. Known as "The Coliseum" this par-3 is the only fully-enclosed hole on the PGA Tour, seating approximately 20,000 spectators in a stadium-like atmosphere. At just 163 yards from the championship tees, it's the shortest hole on the Stadium Course, but what it lacks in length, it more than makes up for in intensity and excitement.

❝The hole has become so iconic that it transformed from a "solid par 3" to golf's most electrifying venue.❞
Max Homa

❝It's going to be pretty wild. It seems like every year it gets crazier and crazier.❞
Justin Thomas

❝Yeah, it's a cool atmosphere. It's unlike any other FedEx Cup event. 16 is the hole out here.❞
Jordan Spieth

❝I love it, honestly, personally... Not really, because that's what makes it unique. If it happened everywhere, then it wouldn't be special.❞
Patrick Reed

Tiger Woods' Ace (1997)
A 21-year-old Tiger Woods sent the crowd into a frenzy with a hole-in-one, creating one of the most memorable moments in PGA Tour history.

Sam Ryder's Hole-in-One (2022)
Ryder's ace led to a beer shower on the green as ecstatic fans celebrated by throwing their drinks.

Harry Higgs' Shirtless Celebration (2022)
After a viral tweet from Joel Dahmen, Higgs took his shirt off on the green, embracing the hole's party atmosphere.

The 16th at TPC Scottsdale continues to be a highlight of the WM Phoenix Open, offering a unique blend of golf skill and entertainment that captivates both players and spectators alike. Here's how to tackle this golfing gem:

Club Selection : With the hole measuring 163 yards from the championship tees, most low handicap golfers will opt for a short iron or wedge. However, club selection can vary based on wind conditions and pin placement.

Aim & Execution: The green is guarded by three bunkers, so accuracy is crucial. Aim for the centre of the green to avoid trouble and give yourself a chance at birdie.

Mental Approach: Practice visualisation techniques on your ball flight

Without the grandstands and roaring crowds, the hole appears more serene with an open setting but still features a well-protected green, guarded by bunkers on both sides, requiring precise shot-making to avoid trouble.

The absence of the amphitheater atmosphere allows golfers to focus purely on their game, highlighting the scenic desert landscape and the course's natural beauty without the usual fanfare and excitement.

Phoenix Open Statistics

Hole in One's: 11
First Ace: Hal Sutton (1988)
Last Ace: Carlos Ortiz (2022)

Handicap: 5
Favourite Course: Pebble Beach Golf Links
My 'Expert' areas: USA, UAE, South Africa, Mauritius
Best trip I've done: Monterey, California
Where my next trip is to: New Zealand

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