The American Express

Mr. Commish,

This week we head to Arizona for the biggest party on the circuit, the WM Phoenix Open. I am reminded of a story that roving reporter Colt Knost once told about Pat Perez, a former Arizona State Sun Devil standout who lived in the area and played out of Whisper Rock. Perez rarely ever participated in the hometown Phoenix Open because of a dislike for the unruly crowds coupled with his short fuse. Colt shared an in-round exchange he had with Pat during one of the few times he played the event:

Colt: "How many people have you wanted to punch today?"

Pat: "How many people are here?"

Certainly, it is a challenging environment to play in; one that Shooter McGavin would definitely not approve of. Nothing is for everyone, as they say. But my guy can handle the chaos. In fact, he told the lovely and talented Amanda Balionis during his Sunday interview that he loves the chaos. After a few years of wandering through the LIV Golf desert, he made mucho dinero but was left feeling unfulfilled, longing for the joy and satisfaction that only real competition can provide. Sure, he won five times on LIV. But is it fun going through life like you are playing your Nintendo on the "easy" mode, beating the likes of Richard Bland and Jason Kokrak every week? He was essentially living the lyrics from George Michael's song, Waiting (Reprise); "And the road that I have walked upon, well it filled my pockets and emptied out my soul."  

But now, the prodigal son returns! This five-time major champion and two-time winner at Phoenix has been welcomed back to the PGA TOUR with arms wide open. Fresh off a made cut at The Farmers, he's got his sea legs back and is ready to bring the familiar TPC Scottsdale golf course to its knees. Like Jordan coming out of retirement, or the Spice Girls announcing a reunion tour, the raucous crowd will rally their support, cheer him wildly, and lead him to the promised land. Give it up for the member of the Florida State Hall of Fame, jet skier, paddleboarder, Green Bay Packers aficionado, older brother of Chase, and husband of an actress featured in Sharknado 5: Global Swarming, Mr. Brooks Koepka!