‘That’s All I’m Hoping…’: Pat McAfee Has a Wish at the Famous 16th Hole Ahead of the WM Phoenix Open

Published 02/10/2023, 1:26 AM EST
The WM Phoenix Open has commenced for the weekend, which is expected to be a keenly contested event. But the key prospect from the event will be its famous 16th hole, which will be met with chants and jeers from loud fans. The experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many, which now includes ESPN’s sports analyst, Pat McAfee, who was spell-bounded after being on the 16th hole. But he had a wish for golfers ahead of the weekend.
Pat McAfee and his request for golfers on the 16h hole
In a brief clip from the TPC Scottsdale, former football punter and kickoff specialist McAfee expressed his delight in being in attendance for the Phoenix Open. “So honestly, after what I just experienced here at The Shot of Glory and getting a chance to kind of feel the energy of this, hole, I think the only hope for is that a hole-in-one happens on this particular hole,” he said.
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McAfee was speaking on the sidelines of the 16th hole, where the experience completely mesmerized him. He revealed that if indeed an ace was made in the course of the event, the internet would be crazy. “I know the internet will be alive whenever the beer cans are flying, but the vibes have to be immaculate in the middle of this desert,” he said.
His words resonated with his wish for an ace at the par-3 hole, which is less than 200 yards in distance. “That’s all I’m hoping for is a hole in one and also an absolute honor to be in here,” he repeated.
Are aces common at the 16th hole of the TPC Scottsdale?
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The famous hole at the Scottsdale has proved to be an enjoyable spot on the course. Its 178-yardage gives golfers a chance to hit a hole-in-one, which makes it an interesting watch.
PGA, Golf Herren WM Phoenix Open – Final Round, Feb 13, 2022 Scottsdale, Arizona, USA Sahith Theegala plays from the rough of the 18th as the crowd watches on during the final round of the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports, 13.02.2022 15:56:44, 17680489, NPStrans, PGA, Sahith Theegala, 18th, Final Round, TopPic PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xAllanxHenryx 17680489. Image Credits: IMAGO
But the main highlight of the hole remains the fans’ cheering. It remains the only hole on the courses of the PGA Tour which allows fans to make maximum noises during a golfer’s tee shot.
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With golf tees usually being silent affairs followed by claps, the 16th hole is as loud as it gets. The noisy surrounding makes for a fun watch, which becomes more enjoyable if the golfer gets a hole-in-one.