The weather was dreary and dark, and there were a lot of arrests and inebriated supporters! Does that sound familiar? These have been the 2024 WM Phoenix Open’s main highlights. One of the wildest days ever observed occurred on the third day at TPC Scottsdale. Even though the 16th hole once attracted 200,000 spectators, the PGA Tour had to take action to contain the chaos!
While intoxicated, a number of strange things happened. As a result, the decision was taken to stop selling alcohol. Despite this, the beverages were the main reason why guests enjoyed the event so much! Can PGA Tour pros enjoy a few drinks and join in the festivities while competing?
Among the oldest sports in the world is golf. Despite significant upgrades over the past ten years, the policies on smoking and alcohol appear to be stringent. But there are plenty of legends, like John Daly, who could have occasionally disregarded those norms.
Players are not allowed to consume alcohol while competing in tournaments, according to the 2022–2023 PGA Tour Player Handbook and Tournament Regulation. Per the policy, there will be consequences for any member who is discovered to be “drinking alcohol during any practice round or tournament round (whether a pro-am round or a tournament competition round), on the practice tee or putting green.” A pro might lose his membership as a result of the action.
Nonetheless, the PGA Tour permits modest alcohol consumption following rounds or during any Tour social events; however, improper conduct could jeopardize a professional’s PGA Tour card. In addition to these guidelines, golfers are encouraged to behave appropriately when under the influence of alcohol in public areas, on golf courses, and elsewhere.
Jay Monahan, the PGA Tour commissioner, will conduct an investigation into any occurrence and render a decision based on relevant facts. Although some items are prohibited from the course since the events are viewed by a large audience and may negatively impact them, the participants are still permitted to have fun. Pros are required to abide by stringent regulations regarding the use of cell phones while on the greens, in addition to the rules regarding alcohol consumption.
The PGA Tour pros are permitted to use their phones twice a day, during practice rounds and in specific areas during any Pro-Am, per the regulation book. The device must vibrate or be silent during practice rounds in accordance with the policies. The rule’s underlying principle is that other golfers shouldn’t be hindered by cell phone use.
On the other hand, mobile devices should only be used for making calls in specific places and creating material on the golf course when participating in the Pro-Am tournament. However, players are explicitly forbidden from using their phones during competition rounds. According to the rule book, it can be used for calling or creating material in particular situations, but appropriate behavior must be observed.
