The 2025 WM Phoenix Open has reached its thrilling midway point, captivating golf enthusiasts and players alike at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona. The tournament, now marking its 90th edition, has seen some exciting developments during the second round, which was suspended on Friday due to darkness. With only six of nine previous events going to playoff, this year promises to be no different.
After posting an impressive second-round score, Thomas Detry leads the tournament with 12 under par following his stunning 64. The 32-year-old Belgian is still chasing his first PGA Tour victory and has clearly demonstrated the ability to deliver under pressure, especially at the renowned par-3 16th hole. His performance featured eight birdies overall, placing him two shots clear of his closest competitors.
Sharing second place are Alex Smalley and Michael Kim at 10 under par. Smalley, who is also searching for his maiden Tour win, fired off impressive birdies, including one at the challenging 13th hole, where he successfully executed with precision. Meanwhile, Kim stunned spectators by scaling 25 spots on the leaderboard after clinching the day with an incredible 63.
The tournament atmosphere has been nothing short of electric, particularly around the famed loudest hole in golf. The 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale, with its capacity to hold 20,000 fans, remains host to boisterous cheers and chants, reflecting the unique culture of the Phoenix Open.
Another memorable moment of the day included Emiliano Grillo's spectacular hole-in-one at the same 16th hole, capturing the audience's excitement as the ball sunk effortlessly for the crowd's applause. Traditionally, the par-3 hole has provided numerous entertainment opportunities for fans, who flock to the stadium-style setting to cheer on their favorite golfers.
Among the notable players struggling to retain their positions are last year's champion, Nick Taylor, and fan favorite Max Homa, who are both projected to miss the cut. Homa's performance recently took center stage with some redeeming shots but fell short on Friday, as he battled inconsistent play.
Scottie Scheffler, ranked World No. 1, is also back on the leaderboard, currently tied for 12th place after shooting scores of 69 and 66. After undergoing surgery for a cooking-related accident on Christmas Day, Scheffler recently returned to competitive play, aiming to secure another win at this event, where he made history by winning back-to-back tournaments.
"The atmosphere here is different from any other PGA Tour event. The crowd can get incredibly loud, which I actually find energizing," said Detry, showing his appreciation for the lively surroundings.
Round two is scheduled to resume on Saturday at 7:45 AM MST, allowing the remaining players to complete their rounds before the cut is announced. With the current projected cut line sitting at two under, the tension builds as golfers strive to maintain their positions heading toward the weekend.
The total prize purse for the 2025 WM Phoenix Open stands at $9.2 million, with the eventual champion expected to take home $1.6 million. This lucrative incentive has heightened the competitive spirit among players as they aim for not only victory but also the significant monetary rewards associated with success.
Meanwhile, the event has made headlines not just for the golf but the experiences and interactions between players and fans. Despite the chaotic and rambunctious reputation of the Phoenix Open, the PGA Tour has worked to combat unruly behavior, emphasizing respect, charity, and appreciation for the sport, especially after tumultuous incidents during the previous year’s tournament.
Rickie Fowler, unable to compete due to illness, and Wyndham Clark—the first-round leader—both contributed to the shift of focus toward the competitors continuing their fight for the win. The tournament's vibrant atmosphere combined with the tight leaderboard is anticipated to keep fans engaged as the stakes grow higher for each remaining round.
From the thrilling hole-in-ones to the noted pressure felt by players facing elimination, the 2025 WM Phoenix Open promises to deliver plenty of captivating moments as it progresses. Fans and players alike are united by their passion for golf, eagerly waiting for the next fictional chapter to be written on the greens of TPC Scottsdale.