The Stadium course at TPC Scottsdale, crafted by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish in 1986, was commissioned by the City of Scottsdale to create a municipal course challenging enough for elite players, a goal it achieved with flying colours. It has since become Arizona’s premier golfing venue and the longstanding host of the Phoenix Open, formerly known by various names like The Western Open and the FBR Open.
After moving from exclusive venues like Phoenix and Arizona Country Clubs, the Phoenix Open found a permanent home at TPC Scottsdale in 1987. Carved from the Sonoran Desert, the Stadium course is celebrated for its openness and friendly design compared to earlier, tighter TPC layouts. Set against the McDowell Mountains, its greens are subtly contoured, allowing approach shots to roll onto the putting surfaces.
The course’s signature holes include the par five 15th, reminiscent of Augusta National’s 13th, with water along the left side and an island green. The par three 16th is famous for its human amphitheatre of spectators, while the drivable par four 17th tempts with water guarding the left side of the green.
The closing par four features a dramatic water hazard that played a pivotal role in Sandy Lyle’s 1988 victory over Fred Couples. Despite the positive reception for the Champions course, designed by Randy Heckenkemper and opened in 2007, the Stadium course, with its rich tournament history spanning nearly 25 years, remains the preferred choice among golfers and fans alike.
