The WM Phoenix Open is known for three things: a party-like atmosphere, drunk fans egging on their favourite pros and – is that a beer ball? Move out of the way.
These golf balls wrapped in cash (for alcohol, of course) have quickly become a staple of the wildest tournament of the year and Ryan Palmer is already prepping for what has become an annual much-appreciated practice.
The 47-year-old is the savviest of vets, making sure he has the WM Phoenix Open patrons on his side from Day One.
I’m in @WMPhoenixOpen .. I’ll throw in the beer balls for 16!! https://t.co/0N3tbuUMGM pic.twitter.com/U2AG3kVmBM
— Ryan Palmer (@RyanPalmerPGA) January 26, 2024
“I’m in @WMPhoenixOpen,” Palmer tweeted. “I’ll throw in the beer balls for 16!!”
That’s how you last in professional golf. It’s not about the driving distance or putting. It’s about making sure you have the crowds on your side, à la Maximus in “Gladiator.” If the fans are entertained, you’re in the clear.
The rite of passage began in 2015 when Palmer started to throw bills into the stands on the lionised par-3 16th. The wind got in the way so the American began to rubber-band the cash onto golf balls for maximum efficiency.
Palmer is certainly in the spirit of things with golf balls that say “Cheers!” and money for the most rambunctious of fans at the loudest hole in the sport. If he were to make an ace this go-around, we’re not sure if “The Colisseum” stands could handle it. We’ll find out soon enough.
