Imagine a golf tournament so exceptional, it’s crowned 'Event of the Year' for the sixth time—and the fourth in just five years. That’s the WM Phoenix Open, the undisputed champion of the 2025 PGA TOUR 'Best Of' awards. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can any other event ever dethrone this fan and player favorite? Let’s dive into what makes this tournament—and others—stand out in a year filled with remarkable achievements.
The PGA TOUR’s 'Best Of' awards celebrate excellence across various facets of tournament execution, from fan engagement and player experience to charitable impact and sponsor integration. And in 2025, the WM Phoenix Open once again proved why it’s a cut above the rest. Held at TPC Scottsdale since 1987, this tournament has become a cornerstone of the PGA TOUR calendar. For the 2025 edition, organizers embraced the theme 'Better, Not Bigger,' focusing on enhancements that elevated the experience without sacrificing the event’s beloved traditions. Free admission on Monday and Tuesday, complimentary parking, and mouthwatering local food options remained, while expanded walkways, redesigned entry points, and reimagined hospitality areas ensured both fans and players felt the difference.
And this is the part most people miss: The WM Phoenix Open isn’t just about golf—it’s a leader in sustainability. As the world’s largest verified zero-waste sporting event, it achieved 100% landfill diversion through solar-powered compactors, reusable signage, and food donations. Plus, WM’s Working For Tomorrow Fund raised $419,000 for water restoration, renewable energy, and hunger relief initiatives. Talk about making an impact on and off the course!
'On behalf of the PGA TOUR, congratulations to The Thunderbirds and WM,' said Tyler Dennis, PGA TOUR chief competitions officer. 'Their relentless pursuit of improvement is evident in every detail, making the WM Phoenix Open a must-experience event on the TOUR calendar.'
But the WM Phoenix Open wasn’t the only tournament to shine in 2025. The inaugural 'Spirit of the PGA TOUR Award' went to TGR Live and the Century Club of San Diego for their extraordinary collaboration. When wildfires forced the relocation of The Genesis Invitational from The Riviera Country Club to Torrey Pines Golf Course, these organizations stepped up, showcasing the TOUR’s spirit in the face of adversity. 'Their dedication inspired golf fans worldwide,' Dennis added.
Other standout awards included the RBC Heritage for 'Most Fan First Event,' where 'Plaid Nation' enjoys a week-long celebration of Southern hospitality and seamless logistics. The BMW Championship took home 'Best Special Event' for its intimate Kickoff Concert featuring the Jonas Brothers and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. Meanwhile, the John Deere Classic’s 'Birdies for Charity' program raised a record-breaking $16.9 million for 460 charities, earning it 'Best Charitable Impact & Integration.' And THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson set a new standard for sponsor integration with its 'House of CJ,' offering authentic Korean culinary experiences and charitable tie-ins that donated $104,000 to the Momentous Institute.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With events like these raising the bar year after year, what innovative ideas do you think future tournaments should explore to keep fans and players engaged? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
