Fri Feb 06 23:20:00 UTC 2026: # Scheffler and Koepka Headline 2026 Waste Management Phoenix Open

The Story:

Scottie Scheffler, the three-time defending PGA Tour Player of the Year, returns to the Waste Management Phoenix Open in 2026, seeking to reclaim the title he first won in 2022. The 39th edition of the tournament will see Scheffler paired with Brooks Koepka, another former champion, in their quest to fill the void left by 2025 champion Thomas Detry, who has joined LIV Golf. With $9.6 million on the line, including over $1.7 million for the winner, the competition at TPC Scottsdale promises to be fierce.

Key Points:

  • The Waste Management Phoenix Open will be held from Thursday, February 5th to Sunday, February 8th, 2026.
  • Scottie Scheffler and Brooks Koepka are among the top players participating.
  • Thomas Detry, the 2025 champion, will not be participating due to his move to LIV Golf.
  • ESPN will provide comprehensive coverage through its app and streaming hub, including a “Betcast” featuring golf-related betting analysis.
  • A total of $9.6 million is at stake, with the winner receiving over $1.7 million.

Key Takeaways:

  • The absence of the defending champion, Thomas Detry, highlights the continued impact of LIV Golf on the PGA Tour’s player pool.
  • Scottie Scheffler’s return as a multiple-time Player of the Year establishes him as a major draw and favorite.
  • The pairing of Scheffler and Koepka creates a compelling narrative for the tournament.
  • ESPN’s expanded coverage, including the Betcast, indicates a growing interest in integrating betting into the golf viewing experience.

Impact Analysis:

The Waste Management Phoenix Open continues to be a significant event on the PGA Tour calendar, drawing top talent and substantial viewership. The departure of players to LIV Golf, exemplified by Thomas Detry’s absence, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the PGA Tour. While it removes a former champion from the field, it also elevates the stakes for remaining players and creates opportunities for new stars to emerge. The increasing integration of betting through platforms like ESPN’s Betcast suggests a potential shift in how fans engage with the sport, potentially attracting a younger and more engaged audience.

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