Dahmen’s Seahawks Support Draws Mixed Reaction at Phoenix Open
– The 2026 WM Phoenix Open is underway at TPC Scottsdale, and the event has already seen its share of memorable moments, including a playful exchange between golfer Joel Dahmen and the enthusiastic crowd at the famed 16th hole.
Dahmen, a Washington state native, showed his support for the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday by donning a Seahawks helmet between shots at the par-3 16th. The gesture elicited a chorus of boos from the Arizona crowd, a testament to the passionate – and often partisan – atmosphere that defines “The People’s Open.”
The incident followed a lively moment involving fellow golfer Keith Mitchell, who energized the crowd with a strong drive. Dahmen’s initial shot, however, landed off the putting green, prompting the initial wave of disapproval. The helmet appearance only amplified the reaction.
According to Dahmen, the helmet was provided by his caddie, Ben Hulka, who previously served as the equipment manager for the Seahawks. Despite the initial negative response, Dahmen quickly won the crowd back with a remarkable recovery. He chipped in a birdie from 45 feet, then tossed hats into the stands, sparking a celebratory atmosphere.
“It was debatable about throwing it on after such a bad shot in there,” Dahmen said, according to reporting from the Arizona Republic. “But hit an unbelievable pitch shot that rolled in like a putt, and the environment is really special after that.”
Dahmen’s participation in the tournament wasn’t guaranteed. He is competing as a conditional PGA Tour member this season and secured a sponsor invite to the event. He reportedly submitted his request for an exemption in a unique fashion, attaching a letter to a green golf polo – a nod to a viral moment from 2022 when he and golfer Harry Higgs famously removed their shirts while playing the 16th hole. Both golfers were reprimanded by the PGA Tour for that incident, but were not fined.
Sahith Theegala and Charley Hoffman also received sponsor exemptions for the 2026 WM Phoenix Open, joining Dahmen in the field. Theegala, a fan favorite, finished as runner-up at the 2022 event. Hoffman is a 26-year PGA Tour veteran and a WM ambassador.
The tournament continues through , with Saturday’s third round scheduled to be broadcast on Golf Channel at . Hideki Matsuyama and Chris Gotterup are currently in contention.
On Friday, February 6th, Dahmen was seen alongside Keith Mitchell on “Happy Hour with Smylie,” observing Mark Hubbard’s tee shot at the 16th hole. Hubbard, a Colorado native, sported a Denver Broncos jersey and landed his drive close to the pin.
