Golf enthusiasts and casual fans alike often tune into the Waste Management Phoenix Open, drawn not only by the world-class competition but by the electric atmosphere, sky-high attendance, and the spectacle that unfolds at TPC Scottsdale. Yet, many may not realize that this iconic tournament has undergone several name changes throughout its storied history—each reflecting evolving sponsorships, cultural shifts, and the tournament’s growing prestige. But what did the Waste Management Open used to be called? The answer takes us on a rich journey through nearly a century of golf history, from humble beginnings in the Sonoran Desert to one of the most attended events on the PGA Tour.
This article delves into the various names and identities the tournament has carried since its inception, exploring how corporate sponsorships, geographic branding, and fan culture have shaped its evolution. We’ll also highlight key moments, legendary players, and the tournament’s transformation into a global phenomenon—providing both context and insight that golf fans will appreciate.
The Origins: Birth of a Desert Golf Tradition
The roots of what we now know as the Waste Management Phoenix Open trace back to 1932. Originally conceived as a way to promote the sport in the Southwest and attract professional golfers to Arizona during the winter months, the event began as a modest tournament in Phoenix.
What It Was Called at the Start
Back then, the tournament had no title sponsor and was simply known as the Phoenix Open. It was founded by Bob Goldwater, Sr.—a Phoenix mayor, business owner, and golf enthusiast who wanted to elevate the city’s profile through sports. The early events were held at the Phoenix Country Club and featured a mix of local amateurs and a few touring professionals.
Despite the lack of star power and financial backing in the beginning, the Phoenix Open distinguished itself by being one of the few events played in the American Southwest during a time when most PGA Tour events were held on the East or West Coasts.
Foundational Years and Early Growth
Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, the Phoenix Open remained a regional tournament, often overshadowed by more established events on the tour schedule. However, its location in a warm, sunny climate during winter gave it a unique appeal, especially as air travel became more accessible after World War II. The tournament gradually began attracting top players, laying the foundation for what would become a must-attend event.
One of the most significant turning points came in 1987, when the event moved to the specially built TPC Scottsdale (Tournament Players Club), designed by renowned golf course architect Jay Morrish. This move not only improved the course quality but also vastly expanded fan amenities and allowed for much larger attendance—ushering in a new era of spectacle and professionalism.
From Phoenix Open to Corporate Sponsorships: The Name Changes Begin
As the tournament grew in popularity and prestige, national companies began recognizing its branding potential. The transition from a locally known “Phoenix Open” to a nationally televised, globally recognized championship coincided with the introduction of title sponsorship—which inevitably led to name changes.
The FURY Tour and Motorola (1986–1995)
In 1986, the PGA Tour launched the “FURY Tour,” a marketing initiative that partnered with major corporations for branding. As part of this initiative, Motorola, based in nearby Arizona (its headquarters were in nearby Tempe), became the first major title sponsor.
This resulted in the tournament being officially renamed the Motorola Phoenix Open. During this phase, the tournament saw increased media coverage and a growing influx of elite golfers. Names like Tom Kite, Greg Norman, and Fred Couples competed during the Motorola years, drawing increasing fan interest.
Not only did sponsorship elevate the financial stakes (attracting larger purses), but it also brought television visibility. The Motorola logo appeared on leaderboards, player apparel, and broadcast graphics, setting the template for modern sports marketing.
Fendt (1996–1997): A Brief European Chapter
An often-overlooked chapter in the tournament’s naming history is its sponsorship by Fendt, a Bavarian company known for manufacturing tractors and agricultural equipment. From 1996 to 1997, the event was called the Fendt Phoenix Open.
While this sponsorship baffled many fans and observers due to Fendt’s limited golf relevance, it reflected efforts to attract international corporate investment to U.S. golf events at the time. However, Fendt pulled its sponsorship after only two years, citing a shift in marketing focus. This short-lived era is now regarded more as a footnote than a turning point, but it remains a quirky part of the tournament’s branding history.
The Accenture Era (2000–2012): Globalization of Sponsorship
After a brief return to the “Phoenix Open” name following Fendt’s departure, the tournament secured another landmark sponsor: Accenture, the global professional services company. From 2000 to 2012, it was officially known as the Accenture Match Play Championship Phoenix Open—though the second part of the title was often dropped for branding simplicity.
A New Brand of Competition
Accenture didn’t just put its name on the event—they helped create a new kind of tournament. While the Phoenix Open remained a stroke-play championship, Accenture used its sponsorship platform to launch the prestigious WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship, held in early February at nearby La Costa Resort. This led to branding overlap and occasional confusion. However, the Phoenix Open remained distinct as a fan-centric, party-driven, record-breaking stroke play event.
Under Accenture’s sponsorship:
- Television ratings increased significantly.
- The tournament adopted a global branding strategy, aligning with Accenture’s international presence.
- Corporate hospitality and luxury suites expanded, appealing to high-end sponsors and business leaders.
Player participation remained consistently strong, with legends like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson (a repeat champion), and Sergio Garcia boosting visibility. Phil Mickelson, who lived in nearby Scottsdale, became a fan favorite and a central figure in the tournament’s growing popularity.
The Par-3 Short Course and the 16th Hole Phenomenon
One of the most defining features of the Accenture era—though it began before and thrived afterward—was the transformation of the 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale into a party venue. This par-3, surrounded by a stadium seating structure that holds over 20,000 spectators, became known worldwide for its rowdy fans, elaborate social tailgates, and viral moments.
Mickelson once joked that it “feels like playing in an NFL playoff game” when hitting to the 16th green. Live music, fan chants, and high-energy celebrations turned this hole into a festival of golf unlike anything else on the Tour.
While Accenture didn’t directly engineer this culture, their sponsorship provided the financial backbone for stadium expansion and media production that amplified the hole’s iconic status.
The Waste Management Takeover (2013–Present)
In 2013, a new and perhaps unexpectedly named title sponsor stepped in: Waste Management, Inc., a North American environmental services giant. The tournament was rebranded as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, a name that continues to this day.
Initially, some fans and commentators raised eyebrows. What could a waste disposal company have to do with golf? However, Waste Management brought in an innovative marketing strategy that aligned the tournament with sustainability, community service, and environmental stewardship.
More Than Just a Name: The “Green Side Up” Initiative
Rather than just slapping a logo on the event, Waste Management launched the “Green Side Up” campaign—a comprehensive sustainability effort that included:
- Comprehensive recycling and waste diversion programs at the tournament site.
- Composting of food waste.
- Reusing temporary structures and materials from year to year.
- Donating leftover food and supplies to local charities.
- Promoting water conservation and carbon footprint reduction in operations.
This initiative not only helped the tournament reduce its environmental impact but also enhanced its reputation as a socially responsible event. The PGA Tour recognized it as one of its most sustainable tournaments.
Continued Spectacle and Record Attendance
Under Waste Management’s sponsorship, fan engagement continued to break records:
- The 2017 tournament recorded over 717,000 attendees across six days, making it the most attended professional golf event in the world.
- Attendance at the Saturday round alone reached over 200,000 people.
- The 16th hole’s party culture reached new heights, with fans donning costumes, organizing elaborate tailgates, and creating memorable on-course moments.
In 2019, after a $100 million renovation to TPC Scottsdale, the stadium around the 16th hole received upgraded audio, lighting, and safety features, further enhancing the gameday experience.
Top Players and Defining Moments Since 2013
The Waste Management Phoenix Open has featured numerous dramatic victories and historic performances:
- Rory McIlroy won the championship in 2015 with a final-round 65, edging past 2010 champion Bubba Watson.
- Webb Simpson captured the 2018 title with impeccable ball-striking.
- Tony Finau holed a birdie on the final hole in 2023 to win by one shot—his first title defense at this event.
Perhaps most iconic was Sergio Garcia’s 2014 victory, secured after a dramatic birdie on the 72nd hole, finally breaking a years-long dry spell and silencing critics.
Despite the name, which might seem unusual for a world-class golf tournament, Waste Management’s commitment to the event—and the fan experience—has been unwavering.
What the Tournament Was Called: A Timeline Recap
To help readers understand the naming evolution, here is a chronological summary of the tournament’s various titles:
| Years Active | Tournament Name | Sponsor / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1932–1985 | Phoenix Open | No title sponsor; founded by Bob Goldwater, Sr. |
| 1986–1995 | Motorola Phoenix Open | First major corporate sponsor; increased visibility. |
| 1996–1997 | Fendt Phoenix Open | Brief sponsorship by German agricultural brand. |
| 1998–1999 | Phoenix Open | Interim period without a title sponsor. |
| 2000–2012 | Accenture Phoenix Open | Global branding; alignment with Match Play Championship. |
| 2013–Present | Waste Management Phoenix Open | Focus on sustainability; record attendance and media coverage. |
Why Names Matter: The Cultural and Marketing Impact
The evolution of the tournament’s name reflects broader trends in sports marketing. In the early decades, events were often identified by location—e.g., Phoenix Open, Byron Nelson Classic, Tucson Open. But as the commercial value of televised sports grew, so did the role of corporate sponsorship.
Sponsorship as a Growth Engine
Each naming phase after 1986 brought increased funding, improved facilities, better player purses, and larger media exposure. The shift from “Phoenix Open” to a branded event was not just cosmetic—it was instrumental in transforming the tournament from a modest stop on the tour into a can’t-miss destination.
For example:
- Motorola brought the modern era of tech-meets-golf, coinciding with innovations in scoring systems and TV graphics.
- Accenture leveraged global business ties to market the event internationally.
- Waste Management introduced environmental responsibility as part of sports culture, appealing to younger, more socially conscious fans.
Does the Name Affect Fan Perception?
At first glance, “Waste Management Open” might sound less glamorous than names like the “Masters” or “U.S. Open.” But fan perception has evolved alongside marketing savvy.
The tournament’s wild fan base, incredible atmosphere, and high-profile participants have largely overshadowed the incongruity of its sponsor’s name. In fact, “WMPO” has become a beloved acronym in golf circles, and the “No Littering” signs around the course—decorated with golf-themed humor—have become iconic photo ops.
Moreover, Waste Management’s community outreach—including donations to youth golf programs and support for local causes—has helped build goodwill and reinforce the idea that even unexpected sponsorships can be impactful when thoughtfully executed.
The Future of the Tournament
Looking ahead, the Waste Management Phoenix Open shows no signs of slowing down. The 2024 and 2025 schedules already feature packed fields, including rising stars and major champions.
Rumors of potential format changes—such as a move to a hybrid stroke/scramble format for charity days or fan engagement events—have surfaced, though the main championship remains a traditional 72-hole stroke play event.
What’s clear is that the tournament’s legacy is no longer defined by what it used to be called, but by what it has become: a cultural phenomenon in the golf world.
Continued Innovation and Fan Experience
Future enhancements may focus on:
- Increasing digital engagement through apps and augmented reality.
- Expanding sustainability initiatives to achieve zero waste.
- Enhancing inclusivity with lower-cost ticket options and youth programs.
- Leveraging social media to highlight viral moments from the 16th hole.
The name change from the Phoenix Open to the Waste Management Phoenix Open may have started as a business transaction, but it has grown into a symbol of how sports, sustainability, and entertainment can coexist.
Conclusion: More Than a Name—A Legacy of Evolution
So, what did the Waste Management Open used to be called? The answer is layered: it began as the Phoenix Open, evolved through Motorola, briefly bore the Fendt name, flourished under Accenture, and is now globally known as the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Despite the changing names, the heart of the event remains the same—heated competition, desert sun, sky-high energy from the fans, and unforgettable moments etched into golf history.
The tournament’s evolution reflects the dynamic nature of professional sports, where tradition meets innovation, and where even a waste management company can enhance the legacy of a classic. What matters isn’t just the name above the title, but the experience beneath it.
Today, the Waste Management Phoenix Open isn’t just another stop on the PGA Tour—it’s a celebration of golf in its most vibrant, unpredictable, and joyous form. And as long as the fans pack the 16th hole and the players chase a dream under the Arizona sun, its legacy—whatever it’s called—will continue to grow.
What was the original name of the Waste Management Phoenix Open?
The Waste Management Phoenix Open was originally known as the Phoenix Open when it was first established in 1932. It began as a small golf tournament held at the Phoenix Country Club, organized with the help of local sports figures and actors Bing Crosby and Al Brosamle. The event was unique for its time because it was one of the first professional tournaments where fans were admitted free of charge, a tradition that helped build a strong community following.
Over the years, the tournament relocated and changed sponsors, but its core identity remained rooted in accessibility and fan engagement. As it grew in popularity, the Phoenix Open moved to its current home at the TPC Scottsdale in 1987, marking a new era of expansion and modernization. Despite these changes, the original name held strong until corporate sponsorship necessitated a rebranding decades later, leading to what is now known as the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Why was the tournament renamed to include “Waste Management”?
The inclusion of “Waste Management” in the tournament’s name stems from a sponsorship agreement that began in 2010. Waste Management, Inc., one of North America’s leading environmental solutions providers, became the title sponsor as part of a multi-year commitment aimed at enhancing the tournament’s infrastructure, sustainability efforts, and community outreach. This partnership was not only financially beneficial but also aligned with broader goals of promoting environmental responsibility.
The renaming to the Waste Management Phoenix Open reflected a trend on the PGA Tour where corporate sponsorships became integral to event funding and management. The sponsorship allowed for improvements such as expanded fan zones, better waste recycling initiatives, and charitable contributions through the Birdies for the Beach program. While purists may have initially resisted the name change, the partnership has led to tangible benefits both on and off the course.
What are some historical name changes the tournament has undergone?
Prior to being sponsored by Waste Management, the tournament had undergone several naming variations due to shifting sponsorships. In the 1980s and 1990s, it was briefly known as the Motorola Phoenix Open after the telecommunications company became the title sponsor. Motorola’s involvement helped elevate the profile of the event, bringing in higher production values and broadcast enhancements, which contributed to its growing national appeal.
After Motorola discontinued its sponsorship, the event reverted to its classic name, the FBR Open (Fremont Bank and later FBR Capital Markets), and was also referred to as the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic for a short time during co-sponsored years. Later names included the Phoenix Open and, eventually, the Waste Management Phoenix Open in 2010. These transitions reflect the evolving nature of PGA Tour events as they adapt to commercial and logistical realities while maintaining the tournament’s legacy.
How has the tournament’s identity remained consistent despite name changes?
Despite various name changes over the decades, the core identity of the tournament has remained consistent through its emphasis on fan accessibility, festive atmosphere, and strong community involvement. Since its inception, the event has prided itself on welcoming spectators, maintaining affordable ticket prices, and creating a vibrant, party-like environment—especially around the famous 16th hole stadium seating, which has become an iconic PGA Tour spectacle.
In addition, the tournament has maintained its winter schedule, typically held in late January or early February, positioning it as one of the early marquee events of the PGA Tour season. The commitment to charitable giving, local partnership, and environmental stewardship under Waste Management’s sponsorship has also preserved its reputation as a socially responsible and community-driven competition, bridging the gap between tradition and modern professional sports marketing.
What role did sponsorships play in the evolution of the tournament’s name?
Sponsorships have been pivotal in shaping the evolution of the tournament’s name and its overall growth. Early on, the event was able to thrive through community fundraising and free attendance, but as prize purses increased and venues modernized, corporate backing became essential. The arrival of sponsors like Motorola and FBR Capital Markets allowed for larger budgets, better marketing, and improved player participation, turning the Phoenix Open into a must-attend stop on the tour.
Each naming shift corresponded with a new phase of financial and organizational support. These partnerships not only provided funding but also lent brand credibility, boosted media coverage, and facilitated infrastructure upgrades. The transition to Waste Management’s sponsorship in 2010 was particularly impactful, providing long-term stability and aligning the event with sustainability initiatives that would become a hallmark of its modern operation.
Is the Waste Management Phoenix Open known by any nicknames?
Yes, the Waste Management Phoenix Open is affectionately known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” a nickname that emerged in the 1990s and has since stuck due to the tournament’s unique blend of world-class golf and carnival-like atmosphere. This moniker reflects the massive crowds, celebrity appearances, rock-concert energy around the 16th hole, and fans dressed in colorful attire, creating a spectacle unlike any other on the PGA Tour.
The nickname also highlights the contrast between the serene nature typically associated with golf and the raucous, electric vibe of the Phoenix Open. The 16th hole, enclosed in a stadium that holds over 20,000 spectators, has become synonymous with this reputation. Despite the corporate title, the “Greatest Show on Grass” remains the most recognizable and beloved unofficial name for the tournament among fans and players alike.
How has the course at TPC Scottsdale influenced the tournament’s legacy?
TPC Scottsdale’s Stadium Course, designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf with input from PGA Tour players, has played a significant role in shaping the modern legacy of the tournament. Hosting the event since 1987, the course was specifically engineered to accommodate large crowds and enhance spectator experience, with wide landing zones, grandstands, and optimal viewing areas. Its design supports the high-energy atmosphere that defines the Phoenix Open.
The 16th hole, a par-3 surrounded by stadium seating, has become the epicenter of fan celebration and is often compared to a sports arena during competition. The course’s layout balances challenge and entertainment, offering tough pin placements that test elite players while providing thrilling moments for audiences. This synergy between course design and event experience has cemented TPC Scottsdale as an iconic venue, contributing greatly to the tournament’s enduring popularity.