We regret to inform golf fans that the conclusion of the WM Phoenix Open may conflict with watching the Super Bowl. Due to several weather delays throughout the week, play in the third round was suspended on Saturday evening. The final group consisting of Nick Taylor, Sahith Theegala, and Andrew Novak were on the 7th green when play was halted. The entire field will reconvene at TPC Scottsdale early in the morning to finish the penultimate round. Given the remaining playtime and possible delays, it is highly likely that the tournament will extend into the time of the Super Bowl.
The current weather conditions have contributed to the unusual schedule. Scottsdale experienced colder temperatures than usual, with the forecast predicting temperatures dipping into the mid-30s on Saturday night. These conditions increase the chances of frost, which led to a delay of one hour and 43 minutes during first-round play on Friday morning. Now, there are approximately three hours of play left in the third round. Once the players are re-paired, the final round could potentially commence between 10:30 and 11 a.m., with the final group teeing off at around 1 p.m. local time.
Pace of play and television conflict
The pace of play during the tournament has been slow. Even after two hours of play on Saturday evening, the final group had only completed seven holes in their third round. If the pace remains the same, the final putt is estimated to occur around 6 p.m. local time, which coincides with the start of Usher’s halftime show during the Super Bowl. The NBC broadcast coverage is scheduled to conclude at 6 p.m. ET, giving fans around 30 minutes to catch the pre-game festivities from Las Vegas. Unfortunately, due to this extended schedule, golf fans may miss the entire first half of the game between the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs.
Moreover, the potential for frost on Sunday could further delay the tournament, potentially leading to a finish on Monday. The sunset on Sunday in Scottsdale is at 6:09 p.m. MT, and any delays may push the conclusion beyond that time. During the Saturday evening play, the horn was blown a few minutes after sunset. However, there is some good news for sports fans, as the forecast does not predict any more rain for both Sunday and Monday.
Despite the conflicts and challenges faced by the WM Phoenix Open, the absence of rain in the upcoming days gives hope for an uninterrupted finish. Golf and sports fans can still look forward to witnessing the conclusion of this prestigious tournament, even if it means sacrificing some of the Super Bowl’s first half.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the WM Phoenix Open finish on Sunday?
There is a high possibility that the tournament will extend past Sunday due to weather delays.
What could cause further delays?
Frost conditions on Sunday morning may lead to additional delays.
What time will the final round begin?
Based on the estimated timeline, the final round may start between 10:30 and 11 a.m., with the final group teeing off around 1 p.m. local time.
How long is the remaining playtime for the third round?
Approximately three hours of play remain for the third round.
What are the chances of rain affecting the tournament?
The forecast shows a zero percent chance of rain for both Sunday and Monday.
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