Phoenix Open fan stretchered out of notorious PGA Tour event as fire department sends warning

Feb 4, 2026 - 11:45

The fan favorite WM Phoenix Open begins on Thursday, headlined by golfing stars Scottie Scheffler and Brooks Koepka.

But before the golfers have even stepped up to the tee box, things are already heating up in the desert.

A general view of the 16th hole during the third round of the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale — The 2026 Phoenix Open begins on Thursday, 5 February

Fire department warns golf spectators about heat this weekend

The Scottsdale Fire Department announced it had treated and transported one man to a hospital for symptoms of heat exhaustion.

“Don’t let the only 80-degree weather fool you,” the Fire Department posted on X.

“Temperatures are running higher than normal for this time of the year, and long hours in the sun can take a toll quickly,” it added.

The Phoenix Open takes place at TPC Scottsdale, famous for its raucous atmosphere and iconic Coliseum hole, the 20,000-seater stadium style 16th.

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The temperature for the duration is set to be in the low-80s, with a high of 82 on the tournament’s final day on Sunday.

The week-long golfing tournament attracts a large number of spectators to Scottsdale, Arizona, and a conscious effort is being made to ensure fans’ safety.

Phoenix Open clamped down on fan behaviour at 2025 tournament

Among golfing fans, this tournament is known as ‘the People’s Open’ due to its rowdy scenes, so much so that they had to stop alcohol sales in 2024.

Scottsdale police arrested a shocking 54 spectators over six days, while 211 attendees were ejected from the event.

Viral clips from the event two-years ago showed topless fans sliding in the mud and footage of fights breaking out around the course.

Ahead of the 2025 event, the PGA Tour released a long list of instructions for fans.

A police officer talks with a fan on the 16th green during the continuation of the second round of the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale on February 10, 2024 in Scottsdale, Arizona. — In 2022, there were no arrests at the event, that number rose to 18 in 2023.

Fans cheer from the stands on the 16th hole during the first round of WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale — Things got so out of control that they had to stop the sale of alcohol in 2024.

It included the usual advice on arriving early and where to park, but also more event-specific details on the need for respect and safety.

“Respect goes a long way, especially at the WM Phoenix Open,” said one of the instructions posted on X.

“We want everyone to have a good time and be safe. Remember to respect the fans, respect the players, and respect the game.”

However, Scottsdale Police revealed 63 arrests were made at last year’s event, so despite the effort of clamping down, spectators found ways to cause trouble.

Scheffler favorite to win the Phoenix Open for the third time

The event will again take up its regular slot on the PGA schedule, with the final round taking place on Super Bowl Sunday.

Before the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots battle for the Vince Lombardi Trophy, Scheffler will bid for a third win in this event and a 21st PGA Tour victory.

Scottie Scheffler and wife, Meredith Scheffler, hold the trophy together on the 18th green after the final round of the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale — Scheffler aims for his third Phoenix Open win after victory at The American Express.

A 7,261-yard par-71 layout, TPC Scottsdale is a straightforward test for professionals.

Patience with the rowdy crowds and the ability to churn out greens in regulation for 72 holes tend to be the route to success.

Scheffler, seemingly unfazed by the large Arizona galleries, is a hot favorite as he seeks a hat-trick in Phoenix, but others can make the world No.1 pull out all the stops.