If you’re heading to the WM Phoenix Open this week, the NBC reporter Kira K. Dixon has one request: leave the heels at home. Seriously. This isn’t a rooftop brunch—it’s a massive, dusty golf course, and the wrong footwear choice could turn your day into a full-blown disaster. Dixon, clearly fed up with seeing questionable shoe decisions at tournaments, took to Instagram with a PSA that was both hilarious and brutally honest.
“I’ve already been to two golf tournaments this year, and let me tell you, I’m not mad at what I’ve seen. I’m disappointed,” she said. And if you think that’s an exaggeration, think again. She broke it all down—snapping your ankle on a hill, getting dirt in between your toes, and, worst of all, stepping into a Friday afternoon port-a-potty. Now that’s a nightmare.
Hence she advises you to stick to comfy, supportive sneakers- Air Max, Sambas, Vejas, whatever keeps you comfortable as you roam TPC Scottsdale for hours. Bonus points if they have a nice, big sole to handle the treacherous terrain.
Well, thanks for the shoe tip, Dixon—the feet of women on the course will thank you for sure. Not only fans but even golf journalist Amanda Balionis’ is impressed. The CBS Sports broadcaster, commented: “I have watched this 5 times and can’t stop snort laughing. The ‘make good choices’ felt like a personal attack on Team Liability but will allow it for the greater good.”
Now, if Balionis is calling herself part of “Team Liability,” you know this is a real issue. Maybe she’s witnessed one too many disastrous footwear choices at events, or maybe she’s even been guilty of one herself. Either way, she—and every seasoned golf fan—knows Dixon is 100% right. In fact, Balionis was so sold on this advice that she reposted Dixon’s post on her Instagram story, captioning: “The PSA ALL ladies need before this weekend at the @wmphoenixopen. Please heed the advice of Miss America.”
But Dixon wasn’t done. She had one last callout, and this one was aimed at the guys. If you’re bringing a first-time golf spectator and don’t warn them about sensible footwear she has news for you: “You don’t deserve to come to the WM Phoenix Open.”
Harsh? Maybe. But is she wrong? Absolutely not. So, take it from Dixon (and Balionis, by extension): wear the sneakers. Save the heels for after-party drinks. And if you see someone wobbling through the course in stilettos, well… they can’t say they weren’t warned.
How is the event going so far?
WM Phoenix Open isn’t just any golf tournament. Here the fans are just as important as the players on course. This event is a week-long desert fiesta where the crowd’s energy is as intense as the competition. The TPC Scottsdale course, stretching over 7,261 yards, is no walk in the park. The infamous par-3 16th hole, known for its party-like atmosphere, remains a fan favorite. However, this year, organizers have implemented a “zero tolerance” policy, meaning no more flying beverages. Security has been ramped up with wider walkways, digital ticketing, and a new entrance near the 18th hole to manage the enthusiastic crowds.
While some big names like Xander Schauffele, Rory McIlroy, and Viktor Hovland are absent, the field is still stacked. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is back, aiming for his third win at TPC Scottsdale. Other top contenders include Hideki Matsuyama, a two-time winner here, and rising star Tom Kim. The total prize purse is a cool $9.2 million, with $1.6 million going to the winner.
As for the action on the course? The first round brought started with a bang. Wyndham Clark leads at 7-under par, with Taylor Moore and Lee Hodges hot on his heels at 6-under. Play was suspended due to darkness and will resume Friday morning.
So, whether you’re here for the golf, the party, or both, the WM Phoenix Open 2025 is delivering on all fronts.
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