Epic Aces at The Coliseum: Celebrating the Greatest Hole-in-Ones at the WM Phoenix Open’s Iconic 16th Hole
The WM Phoenix Open is renowned for its electrifying atmosphere, especially at the iconic par-3 16th hole, often referred to as “The Coliseum.” On February 7, 2025, Argentine golfer Emiliano Grillo delivered a moment for the ages by slam-dunking a hole-in-one on this very hole, igniting the crowd and adding his name to the tournament’s storied history.
In light of Grillo’s spectacular feat, let’s explore five of the most memorable hole-in-ones at the WM Phoenix Open’s 16th hole, each contributing to the legend of this celebrated venue.
1. Tiger Woods’ Iconic Ace (1997)
A young Tiger Woods announced his arrival on the PGA Tour with a sensational hole-in-one at the 1997 Phoenix Open. His shot sent the crowd into a frenzy, marking one of the earliest and most memorable moments in the tournament’s history.
2. Sam Ryder’s Electrifying Ace (2022)
In 2022, Sam Ryder delivered a thrilling hole-in-one that sent the crowd into a frenzy, with fans showering the course in celebration. This moment encapsulated the unique and exuberant atmosphere of the 16th hole.
3. Carlos Ortiz’s Back-to-Back Ace (2022)
Following Sam Ryder’s ace, Carlos Ortiz achieved his own hole-in-one at the 16th hole in the same tournament, adding to the excitement and showcasing the unpredictable nature of the game.
4. Jarrod Lyle’s Heartfelt Hole-in-One (2011)
The late Jarrod Lyle made a memorable ace in 2011, delighting fans and leaving a lasting impression with his joyful celebration. This moment is cherished as a highlight of his career.
5. Andrew Magee’s Historic Par-4 Ace (2001)
While not on the 16th, Andrew Magee’s hole-in-one on the par-4 17th during the 2001 Phoenix Open remains notable as the first-ever ace on a par-4 in PGA Tour history.
These remarkable moments have solidified the WM Phoenix Open’s 16th hole as a stage for golfing drama and excitement. Emiliano Grillo’s recent slam-dunk ace adds to this rich history, ensuring that the legend of “The Coliseum” continues to grow.
Which of these hole-in-ones do you find most impressive? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For a visual recap of Grillo’s stunning ace, check out the video below:
