Party foul: Phoenix Open closes entrance, limits alcohol, because course is too crowded

1 of 9 |

Golfers survey the 18th green as thousands in the gallery watch during the continuation of the second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament, Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

2 of 9 |

Supporters of golfer Sahith Theegala cheer him on at the 16th hole during the continuation of the second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament, Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

3 of 9 |

A fan in the gallery shouts at a golfer at the 16th hole during the second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

4 of 9 |

Fans of Scottie Scheffler cheer him on at the 16th hole during the second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

5 of 9 |

Fans run onto the course prior to the continuation of second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

6 of 9 |

Fans wait to walk onto the course prior to the continuation of second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

7 of 9 |

Fans gather at the 18th hole during the second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

8 of 9 |

Fans in the gallery watch from near the 17th tee during the second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

9 of 9 |

Fans run onto the course prior to the continuation of second round of the Phoenix Open golf tournament Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

By DAVID BRANDT

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Even the famously no-holds-barred Phoenix Open has a limit on how much debauchery is allowed on a golf course.

The tournament, which is at TPC Scottsdale, stopped allowing fans onto the premises around 2 p.m. on Saturday afternoon because it was too crowded. It also stopped alcohol sales at most locations around the course, hoping to slow down the party.

It’s the first time the Phoenix Open has had to — at least briefly — turn away ticket holders.

The huge crowds came to Scottsdale despite less-than-ideal weather conditions. It was raining and in the 40s for most of the morning before the sun peeked through the clouds and temperatures rose to the 50s.

“Due to larger than usual crowds, the WM Phoenix Open entrance gates are temporarily closed and shuttle service to the event is on hold,” the tournament said on social media. “Shuttle service back to parking lots will remain running. Regularly check our channels for updates.”

The Phoenix Open, dubbed the “Greatest Show on Grass,” is unlike anything in golf. Masses of up to 200,000 fans pack TPC Scottsdale’s Stadium Course with cheers, boos and the occasional beer shower.

The eye of the rowdy hurricane is the 16th hole, a multi-tiered frat party of a par-3 where “Quiet please” signs are met with ample disdain.

___

AP Sports Writer John Marshall contributed to this report.

___

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf