The Killers
The WM Phoenix Open has weathered its share of storms this year, but the tournament’s ability to pull off major entertainment coups proves it remains one of golf’s most formidable events.
Yes, the Scottsdale spectacle has faced legitimate criticism. From concerns about overcrowding and unruly fan behavior to questions about whether the party atmosphere overshadows the actual golf, the WM Open has given its detractors plenty of ammunition. The tournament has long walked a tightrope between raucous entertainment and professional sport, and that balance hasn’t always held steady.
But here’s the thing about juggernauts: they keep rolling forward.
Case in point? The Killers will be performing at the legendary Bird’s Nest, the nightly party venue that has become as much a part of the WM Open’s identity as the stadium atmosphere at the 16th hole. Landing a band of The Killers’ caliber isn’t just impressive…it’s a statement. We’re talking about one of the biggest rock acts of the past two decades, a band that headlines major festivals and sells out arenas worldwide. Their setlist alone could power an entire music festival.
The Bird’s Nest has hosted impressive lineups before, but The Killers represent something different. This isn’t just getting a popular band; it’s securing legitimate headliner talent that transcends the golf world and positions the WM Open as a premier entertainment destination, not just a sporting event. When fans can watch world-class golf during the day and then catch “Mr. Brightside” and “Somebody Told Me” at night, the value proposition becomes undeniable.
Critics may grumble about the tournament’s focus on spectacle, but the WM Open has found a formula that works spectacularly well. It consistently draws massive crowds, generates enormous charitable donations, and now offers entertainment that rivals standalone music festivals.
The controversies won’t disappear, and the tournament should continue addressing legitimate concerns. But with moves like bringing in The Killers, the WM Open proves it’s not just surviving its challenges—it’s thriving despite them, remaining an unstoppable force in professional golf.