The Waste Management Phoenix Open is known for offering a unique experience compared to typical PGA Tour events, attracting a crowd that is louder and more boisterous. Fans are encouraged to bring energy, cheer loudly, and even heckle players during this four-day celebration of golf. The event’s vibrant atmosphere is especially palpable at the 16th hole, a par-three set inside a stadium filled with passionate spectators, creating an intense and energetic environment that players often enjoy as a break from the usual quiet of PGA Tour stops.
However, this lively setting sometimes leads to incidents that cross the line of sportsmanship and respect for the players and the game itself.
Jack Doherty Receives Lifetime Ban from PGA Tour Events
During this year’s Phoenix Open, controversial internet personality and streamer Jack Doherty was handed a lifetime ban from all future PGA Tour tournaments after deliberately disrupting play. Doherty paid a nearby spectator $100 to yell during Mackenzie Hughes’ backswing, a breach of conduct that angered both Hughes and those watching closely. The disturbance provoked an immediate reaction from security personnel, who escorted both Doherty and the spectator off the course despite Doherty’s protestations that he had done nothing wrong.
An official confronted Doherty, warning,
“If you come back here again before this tournament is over, you will be arrested, and then we’ll go through that whole process. In addition to that, I’m trespassing you from all future PGA Tour tournaments.”
If you show up again at a PGA Tour tournament again, you will be arrested. For the foreseeable future until we can work this out.
— Official
Public and Player Reactions to the Incident
The PGA Tour received widespread approval across social media for the swift and firm response to Doherty’s actions, reinforcing the importance of maintaining decorum at events despite the party-like atmosphere. Doherty, however, became the subject of online criticism and ridicule. Former PGA Tour player Smylie Kauffman took to X with a sharp rebuke, posting,
Someone needs to give this kid a swirlie
, and adding, And I volunteer as tribute.
Despite the distraction caused by Doherty’s actions, Mackenzie Hughes, who is battling to secure his place on the PGA Tour this season, managed to finish his round two under par and stands T19 in the tournament. This incident, however, marks a clear stance by the PGA Tour on protecting the integrity of play and the players’ concentration in environments where fan enthusiasm can become disruptive.
