The upcoming 2023 WM Phoenix Open, scheduled to take place in the Phoenix area, may not feature as many premier players as in previous years, and it is not classified as one of the PGA’s signature events. However, the absence of top-tier players doesn’t diminish the event’s significant economic impact.

Global Recognition and Enthusiasm

Michael Mosher, representing Teed Up Golf, a tour group based in Sydney, Australia, expressed the widespread enthusiasm for the Phoenix Open. Mosher highlighted the event’s popularity by stating that some individuals enjoyed it more than the Super Bowl. His tour group, consisting of 84 Australians, attended both the Phoenix Open and the Super Bowl, with particular emphasis on the unique experience at the stadium hole on Saturday.

Phoenix: The Next Big Ticket Event

Adrian Beunder, representing Absolut Sport, an organization specializing in sports trip travel, shared the belief that Phoenix is evolving into the next major global event destination. Absolut Sport brings clients from various parts of the world, including Latin America, attesting to the event’s international appeal.

Beyond Spectating: Playing Golf in Phoenix

The allure of the WM Phoenix Open extends beyond watching top-tier golf. Visitors have the opportunity to play golf at numerous courses in the Phoenix area, contributing to the economic boost for the state.

Michael Mosher recounted how members of his tour group played at TPC Scottsdale the week after the tournament, reenacting the lively atmosphere with friends in the grandstands. This unique experience not only showcases the love for the sport but also adds to the overall economic impact.

Economic Impact: A Significant Figure

According to Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business, the WM Phoenix Open generates a staggering $400 million annually. This figure highlights the substantial economic contributions that the event brings to the region.

Adrian Beunder emphasized that the economic impact extends beyond hotel expenditures, encompassing spending in restaurants and city tours. Notably, a significant portion of the expenditure is directed towards pub crawls, reflecting the lively and festive nature of the event.

Conclusion: The Unparalleled Impact of the WM Phoenix Open

In conclusion, the WM Phoenix Open stands out not only as a golfing spectacle but as a global event with far-reaching economic implications. The absence of premier players does not diminish the enthusiasm of attendees, and the event continues to draw international visitors, solidifying its status as a major contributor to the Arizona economy.