WM Phoenix Open

University of Texas senior Bohyun Park and Ole Miss junior Cameron Tankersley captured prestigious Folded Flag trophies and Bomber Jackets as champions of their respective divisions at the 14th Annual Patriot All-America Invitational. Park delivered a record-setting performance on the Blue Course, firing a final-round 7-under 63 to claim the Women’s Division title with a tournament-record 15-under 195. Meanwhile, Tankersley secured the Men’s Division victory with a steady 1-under 69 on the Wigwam Golf Club’s Gold Course, finishing at 10-under 200 to win by three strokes.

The Thunderbirds proudly served as a major sponsor of the Patriot All-America Invitational, a unique tournament showcasing PING All-Americans from the previous season across NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, NAIA, and NJCAA. The event also welcomed 2023 AJGA First Team All-America Seniors and other special invitees. This 54-hole amateur tournament is renowned as the first of its kind to feature 150 nationally recognized men and women golfers competing simultaneously.

Park entered the final round tied for the 36-hole lead with Oregon sophomore Kiara Romero but didn’t hold back, carding eight birdies against just one bogey to dominate the Blue Course for a third consecutive day. Romero’s six birdies kept her in contention, but three bogeys ultimately left her four shots back in second place at 11-under. Ohio State’s Kary Hollenbaugh rounded out the top three, finishing solo third at 9-under.

On the Gold Course, Tankersley started the final round with a two-shot cushion and maintained his lead despite challenges from a crowded leaderboard. The Ole Miss junior tallied five birdies and four bogeys to secure a three-shot victory. Tied for second at 7-under were Zach Pollo and Tianyi Xiong of the University of Arizona, Ryan Voois of

Illinois, Mesa Falleur of New Mexico, and Keaton Vo of North Carolina. An additional five players finished in a tie for seventh at 6-under.

The Patriot All-America pays tribute to fallen or severely wounded soldiers and first responders through a partnership with the Folds of Honor Foundation. At the opening ceremony, each golfer receives a PING golf bag bearing the name and branch of service of a fallen or injured military member they represent. Participants also receive a card detailing the soldier’s story, fostering a personal connection. Following the event, the golf bags are sold by the players’ colleges or universities, with proceeds benefiting Folds of Honor to support affected families. For more information about The Patriot All-America, visit patriotallamerica.com.

The WM Phoenix Open was honored with two prestigious awards at the PGA TOUR’s annual Tournament Meetings in Orlando, Florida earlier this week. The tournament earned recognition for “Best Special Event” with the Concert in the Coliseum and “Best Product” for its innovative Tee Side Seats offering.

CONCERT IN THE COLISEUM EARNS BACK-TO-BACK RECOGNITION

The Concert in the Coliseum, held on the iconic 16th hole of TPC Scottsdale, received the “Best Special Event” award for the second consecutive year. The 2024 event featured a headline performance by global superstar Post Malone, drawing 12,000 fans and generating significant media attention.

“This award highlights the creativity and dedication of everyone involved in making the Concert in the Coliseum a success,” said George Thimsen, Tournament Chairman for the 2024 WM Phoenix Open and President of Thunderbirds Charities. “We’re proud to create an event that not only entertains fans but also supports Thunderbirds Charities in a meaningful way.”

TEE SIDE SEATS RECOGNIZED AS BEST PRODUCT

The Tee Side Seats, introduced at the 2024 tournament, were recognized for delivering an exclusive and immersive experience directly on the 16th tee. The product provided a VIP experience that included private check-in, concierge service, gourmet dining, and premium seating at the most iconic hole in golf.

“The Tee Side Seats represent our commitment to enhancing the fan experience while creating new opportunities for incremental growth,” said Thimsen. “This product set a new standard for hospitality at the WM Phoenix Open.”

SUPPORTING THUNDERBIRDS CHARITIES

Both award-winning initiatives contribute directly to Thunderbirds Charities, supporting numerous nonprofit organizations and programs.  Last year’s WM Phoenix Open raised a record $17.5 million for charity, and in the process helped The Thunderbirds eclipse $200 million in charitable giving in the tournament’s 89-year history.

“These awards are a testament to the impact the WM Phoenix Open has on our community,” Thimsen said.  “The funds raised through offerings like the Concert in the Coliseum and Tee Side Seats enable us to continue supporting organizations in need.”

Tournament Chairman Matt Mooney announced that Arizona State University senior and 2024 U.S. Amateur champion Josele Ballester will receive the first of five available sponsor exemptions for the 2025 WM Phoenix Open, set to tee it up February 3-9 at TPC Scottsdale.  Ballester was surprised with the announcement yesterday at the WM Phoenix Open Tee-Off Luncheon at Chase Field.

“The Thunderbirds are thrilled to welcome another Sun Devil to our tradition of showcasing top amateur talent at the WM Phoenix Open,” said Tournament Chairman Matt Mooney. “We are so proud of Josele’s accomplishments and can’t wait to see the 2024 U.S. Amateur champion tee it up at TPC Scottsdale this February.”

A standout golfer for ASU), Ballester has made a name for himself both on the collegiate circuit and in amateur golf globally. A three-time All-American, Ballester capped off an outstanding 2024 season by winning the prestigious U.S. Amateur Championship, becoming the fourth ASU player and first ever Spaniard to claim a U.S. Amateur title. His victory at Hazeltine National Golf Club secured him exemptions to major tournaments, including the Masters, U.S. Open, and British Open in 2025. Earlier in his career, Ballester won the 2023 European Amateur and has consistently ranked among the Top-10 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking.

In collegiate play, Ballester has proven to be a fiery competitor, earning multiple Top-5 finishes and securing his first individual win at the 2024 Olympia Fields Illini Invitational. His impressive performance included a tournament-record score of 10-under-par 200. His success continues to elevate ASU’s rich golf tradition while setting the stage for an exciting professional career. The Sun Devil will be making his first appearance at “The People’s Open” in 2025.

The Thunderbirds and WM have a total of five exemptions to award for the 2025 WM Phoenix Open. The remaining four exemptions will be announced leading up to the tournament.

The 2025 Coors Light Birds Nest lineup is locked in as officials confirmed acclaimed Canadian rock band Nickelback will make their first appearance at the popular four-night concert series, which will take place Feb. 5-8 during WM Phoenix Open week.  Nickelback and opening performer Josh Ross will take the stage on Friday, Feb. 7, bringing their timeless hits to night three of the official afterparty of “The People’s Open.”

Tickets are on sale now at  CoorsLightBirdsNest.com. Limited tickets still remain for the Jelly Roll show on Wednesday, Feb. 5, Luke Bryan’s performance on Thursday, Feb. 6, and Swedish House Mafia’s set on Saturday, Feb. 8.

PURCHASE TICKETS

General admission tickets will start at $125. VIP tickets and elevated experiences are available starting at $350 each and provide exclusive access to an enhanced VIP area where guests are treated to complimentary food and drinks and access to a premium viewing area for the shows.  Organizers encourage fans to buy their tickets early as ticket prices will increase as the event draws closer.

One of Canada’s most commercially successful rock bands, Nickelback was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2023, solidifying their legacy as one of the most influential rock bands of the modern era. Named Billboard’s “Most Successful Rock Band of the Decade” in 2009, the Diamond-certified group has left an indelible mark on global music with career-defining hits like “How You Remind Me,” “Photograph,” “Far Away,” and “Rockstar.” Comprised of Chad Kroeger, Ryan Peake, Mike Kroeger, and Daniel Adair, Nickelback’s impressive catalog and commercial success have established them as one of the top-selling acts of all time, with over 50 million records sold worldwide. In the U.S. alone, they ranked as the second best-selling foreign act of the 2000s, trailing only The Beatles. “How You Remind Me,” their inescapable 2001 smash hit, was named Billboard’s “Top Rock Song of the Decade” and became the most-played song on U.S. radio across all formats during the 2000s, logging over 1.2 million spins according to Nielsen SoundScan. This achievement underscores Nickelback’s unparalleled impact on rock music during that era. Beyond this iconic track, the band boasts a staggering 23 chart-topping singles and a legacy of more than twelve consecutive sold-out world tours, during which they performed for over 10 million fans worldwide.

Nickelback’s accolades further affirm their significance in music history. They’ve earned nine Grammy nominations, three American Music Awards, a World Music Award, a People’s Choice Award, 12 JUNO Awards, and seven MuchMusic Video Awards. Their enduring influence has also been recognized through their induction into Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2007 and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2023. With fans spanning the globe and a track record of consistent success, Nickelback continues to be a defining force in rock music.

Josh Ross, a rising star in modern country music, has quickly established himself as one of Nashville’s most promising singer-songwriters. Signed to UMG Nashville/Universal Music Canada, Ross combines a dark, modern country-rock sound with heartfelt lyrics and irresistible hooks that transcend genres. Drawing inspiration from icons like Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, and Steve Earle, the former collegiate football player channels raw emotion into his music, earning him accolades and a growing fan base on both sides of the border. His Platinum-certified hits have dominated Canadian country radio, with “Trouble” reaching #1 and solidifying his reputation as a breakout artist.

In 2023, Ross was named as the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) Breakthrough Artist of the Year and walked away with a total of five CCMA awards, finding his place as a next-generation talent. Ross made his CMA debut and took home CMA Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award. With more than 800 million career streams, he’s been spotlighted as an Artist to Watch by Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, and the Grand Ole Opry, among others. Ross has toured alongside major acts like Nickelback, Luke Bryan, and Brantley Gilbert, while also headlining his own sold-out shows. His latest EP, Complicated, released in March 2023, features standout tracks like the anthemic “Single Again” and showcases his edgy vocals paired with powerful instrumentation.

The Thunderbirds – hosts of the WM Phoenix Open – are excited to announce country music superstar Blake Shelton and three-time GRAMMY winner Gwen Stefani will take center stage live from the iconic 16^th hole at TPC Scottsdale as co-headliners for the 2025 edition of the Concert in the Coliseum presented by Swire Coca-Cola on Saturday, Feb. 1, just two days before WM Phoenix Open tournament week.   Stefani will open the show and take the stage at approximately 5:30 p.m., with Shelton closing it out and starting at approximately 7:30 p.m.

PURCHASE TICKETS NOW

General admission tickets for this special kickoff to WM Phoenix Open week are on sale now! CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS.  The Concert in the Coliseum is a 21-and-over event.  The concert will once again take place on a massive stage that will be built in the middle of the 16^th hole strictly for this special Saturday night show.  Venue gates will open at 3:30 p.m.

“The Concert in the Coliseum has quickly become a signature moment of ‘The People’s Open’ and this year’s headliners bring something truly special,” said Matt Mooney, Tournament Chairman of the 2025 WM Phoenix Open. “Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani are two powerhouse artists spanning multiple genres. We are thrilled to welcome them to the stage at the iconic 16th hole as they create an unforgettable night to kick off WM Phoenix Open week.”

Shelton has spent more than two decades as one of country music’s most recognized ambassadors, delivering chart-topping hits and reaching audiences across multiple genres. With an impressive career that includes 29 No. 1 singles, nearly 15 million album sales, and more than 12.5 billion streams globally, Shelton has solidified his place in country music history. His accolades include six ACM Awards, three AMAs, 10 CMA Awards, 11 CMT Awards, and six People’s Choice Awards, among many others.

Shelton most recently topped the radio and streaming charts with Post Malone with their smash hit “Pour Me A Drink.” Shelton has a busy tour schedule in 2025 with his “Live In Las Vegas” Residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The residency will occur on February 5, 7, 8, 12, 14, and 15. His “Friends And Heroes” Tour will Kick off February 27 in Lexington, KY, and feature Craig Morgan, Deana Carter & Trace Adkins with very special guest Emily Ann Roberts.

Stefani is a three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning artist who has achieved worldwide success as a singer, songwriter, and fashion icon. As the charismatic frontwoman of No Doubt and a multi-platinum solo artist, Stefani’s career has spanned decades and genres, earning her numerous accolades, including four MTV Video Music Awards, two Billboard Awards, an American Music Award, and a Brit Award. Known for hits like “Hollaback Girl,” “Rich Girl,” and “The Sweet Escape,” she’s sold over 60 million units globally. Her latest solo album, This Is What the Truth Feels Like, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, featuring the powerful single “Used to Love You.”

Stefani’s illustrious career began as the lead vocalist of No Doubt, a ska-punk band that rose to global fame with their 1995 album Tragic Kingdom. The album, featuring hits like “Just a Girl” and “Don’t Speak,” sold over 16 million copies worldwide and earned two Grammy nominations, cementing Stefani’s status as a breakout star in the 1990s.

This November, Stefani is set to release her fifth studio album, Bouquet, featuring singles like “Somebody Else’s” and “Swallow My Tears.” In addition to her music, Stefani is celebrated as a style icon and the visionary behind her fashion line, L.A.M.B., and beauty brand, GXVE. Currently, she continues to mentor new talent as a coach on the Emmy®-winning series The Voice. She continues to influence both music and fashion, leaving a lasting impression on pop culture.

This is the fourth year The Thunderbirds have hosted this unique concert inside one of sport’s most recognized settings.  Last year featured global star Post Malone and rising country music artist Ernest, 2023 featured Maroon 5 and Walker Hayes, while the first ever Concert in the Coliseum in 2022 was headlined by Thomas Rhett and Old Dominion.

WM Phoenix Open Tournament Chairman Matt Mooney announced today general admission tickets are now on sale for the 90th edition of “The People’s Open,” scheduled to be played Feb. 3-9 at TPC Scottsdale.

Click here to purchase tickets. 

General admission tickets for Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday are $75, while Friday and Saturday tickets are $125. Thanks to your Arizona Ford Dealers, all patrons will once again receive free admission to Monday’s Carlisle Pro-Am and Tuesday practice rounds as part of Ford Free Days.

Additionally, two popular venues have been revamped for 2025 and will offer an upgraded general admission experience – Kiva Club and DraftKings Sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale.

Kiva Club offers great views of 17 fairway and 10 green and features multiple TVs throughout the venue, plus food and drink options available for purchase.  Kiva Club tickets are $175 on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, and $225 on Friday and Saturday.

DraftKings Sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale is located near the main tournament entrance and offers a sports bar environment with 2,700 square feet of video walls, 32 betting kiosks and six live-betting windows.  Daily tickets for DraftKings Sportsbook are $175 on Wednesday and Thursday, and $225 on Friday and Saturday.  The ticket includes complimentary food, drinks available for purchase, and general admission access to the tournament.  No ticket is required to gain access to DraftKings Sports at TPC Scottsdale on Monday, Tuesday and Sunday.  Draftkings Sportsbook is a 21 and over venue.

Limited daily and weekly all-inclusive hospitality packages are still available as well.  Daily and weekly options are available for Nine and Skybar, while 1937 Club, Chairman’s Club and the always-popular Greenskeeper venue have limited weekly packages remaining.  These venues offer a wide range of complimentary food and beverage options, VIP seating, enhanced viewing areas and other added amenities.

Additional Information, pricing, and purchase options for all 2025 ticket packages can be found on the tournament website at www.WMPhoenixOpen.com.