Jack Doherty PGA Ban: Phoenix Open Controversy | Golf News

A livestreamer was removed from the Waste Management Phoenix Open on Friday and is now barred from future PGA Tour events, according to a person familiar with the matter. While the PGA Tour has not publicly confirmed the specifics of any disciplinary action, the incident highlights a growing challenge for professional sports leagues in managing fan behavior in the age of social media.

Disruption at Scottsdale

The individual, identified as 22-year-old Jack Doherty, allegedly paid a spectator to shout during Mackenzie Hughes’ pre-shot routine from a bunker, as shown in videos circulating online. Security and law enforcement quickly intervened, removing both Doherty and the spectator from the tournament grounds. The WM Phoenix Open, known for its lively atmosphere, particularly at the 16th hole, is one of the most well-attended golf tournaments in the world.

Did You Know? The Waste Management Phoenix Open is considered golf’s best-attended tournament by some distance.

A Pattern of Disruption

Doherty has gained a substantial online following – nearly 30 million subscribers across multiple platforms – by livestreaming what are described as “confrontational public pranks.” His past stunts include videos titled “I crashed into a cop car” and “I got banned from Disney.” These types of stunts often gain traction due to platform algorithms that prioritize engagement, even when that engagement stems from controversy.

Expert Insight: This incident reflects a broader trend of individuals seeking to leverage live sporting events for online content, sometimes at the expense of the experience for other fans and the integrity of the competition. Leagues are now grappling with how to balance accessibility with the need to maintain order and respect for the game.

Potential Consequences and Future Steps

While the PGA Tour has not publicly detailed the length of the restriction, footage suggests Doherty may be barred from events “for the foreseeable future.” It is possible the tour could establish clearer guidelines regarding livestreaming and disruptive behavior at future events. Other sports leagues, including the WNBA, are also facing similar challenges, as evidenced by recent incidents involving fan conduct.

The situation at the Phoenix Open also occurred after gates were temporarily closed and alcohol sales halted in 2024 due to overcrowding, demonstrating the challenges of managing large crowds and maintaining control of the event environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specifically did Jack Doherty do at the Phoenix Open?

According to videos circulating online and accounts of the incident, Jack Doherty appeared to pay a spectator to shout during Mackenzie Hughes’ pre-shot routine.

Has the PGA Tour officially confirmed a ban for Doherty?

The PGA Tour has not publicly confirmed the scope or duration of any restriction, but a person familiar with the matter stated Doherty is barred from future events. Footage also appears to show a tournament official informing Doherty of a ban “for the foreseeable future.”

Is disruptive fan behavior a new problem for the PGA Tour?

While the Waste Management Phoenix Open is known for its lively atmosphere, a tour spokesperson stated that disruptive fan behavior will not be tolerated and that the incident tested the boundaries of golf’s traditional etiquette.

As sports leagues continue to navigate the intersection of live events and social media, how might they balance fan engagement with the need to protect the integrity of the game?