Rowdy Atmosphere Overshadows Nick Taylor's Phoenix Open Victory

Americans Zach Johnson and Billy Horschel faced confrontations with fans during the Phoenix Open known for its lively atmosphere. Johnson the former Ryder Cup captain expressed frustration demanding spectators to “just shut up.” Horschel was upset by heckling while his playing partner Nicolo Galletti was about to hit a shot.

The tournament witnessed unruly behavior including fights a woman falling from a stand and a temporary halt in alcohol sales. Canadian Nick Taylor won the event in a playoff after a late surge overshadowed by disruptive incidents including a spectator arrested for jumping into a bunker on the notorious 16th hole.

The Phoenix Open has a history of rowdy behavior with past instances of streaking and showering the green with bottles. The latest events prompted criticism from players like Byeong Hun An describing the tournament as “totally out of control on every hole.”