(Photos by Jermicka Juniel)
I am standing on the sacred grounds of The WM Phoenix Open, held February 2–8, 2026, at TPC Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona — home to the largest crowds in golf and the most iconic hole on the PGA TOUR, the famed 16th hole “Coliseum,” where fans create an electric atmosphere unmatched in all of sport.
The WM Phoenix Open has captured the hearts of millions of golf fans around the world. From Hall of Fame champions and unforgettable par-4 aces to the rowdiest hole in golf, after-hours concerts, Saturday breakfast clubs, and more than $226 million raised for charity, there is simply nothing like it in sports.
In 2026, the tournament delivered another dramatic finish. Chris Gotterup emerged as champion, defeating Hideki Matsuyama in a playoff to claim the title at 16-under par and take home $1.728 million from a $9.6 million purse.
As I walked the fairways with quiet confidence — one step for Sapp — this moment was more than a tee time. It was a reminder that every step I took on the fairway was also a step forward for those who were once denied the right to walk it.
Last year at this very tournament, I had the extreme pleasure of meeting African American caddy Adam Parmer, who carries the bag for Max Greyserman, one of the top 100 ranked golfers in the world. I’ve continued to follow them ever since, and we’ve developed a good friendship rooted in mutual respect and our shared love of the game.
Chris Gotterup emerged as the champion in dramatic fashion. Gotterup and Hideki Matsuyama both finished at 16-under par after four rounds, setting up a sudden-death playoff. On the first playoff hole, Gotterup sealed the victory with a long birdie after Matsuyama’s ball found water, capping a thrilling week of golf at one of the PGA Tour’s most electric events. This win marked Gotterup’s second PGA Tour victory of the 2026 season and added to his growing success on tour.
