DraftKings and the PGA Tour have teamed up to hold a groundbreaking ceremony for a ‘first-of-its-kind’ sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale in Phoenix, AZ. The new sportsbook will provide a ‘19th hole experience,’ where fans have access to food and beverage options.
The ceremony was well attended, with PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, DraftKings CEO Jason Robins, City of Scottsdale, Arizona Mayor David Ortega and Thunderbirds President Dr. Michael Golding all present.
The two companies are working closely with the City of Scottsdale and the Thunderbirds, who hosted the WM Phoenix Open, to develop the project.
Recent reports have emerged that suggest a potential deal between DraftKings and Walt Disney Co’s ESPN. This would allow will allow the sports broadcaster to capitalize on the growing wave of legalized sports betting in North America.
However, ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro rejected claims that any concrete deal had already been reached during a press conference. He said: “We’re not going to take people’s money; we’re not going to set lines and spreads and odds. But the idea of leaning in a bit more here and creating a more seamless experience is definitely on the table.”
The PGA Tour has embraced partnerships with a number of betting brands since the overturning of PASPA in the US in May 2018.
This is demonstrated by the PGA’s team-up with bet365 in a deal that will run through until 2024. The agreement named bet365 as the PGA Tour’s official betting operator (OBO). Prior to this, the PGA Tour has never had an OBO outside of North America. With the new partnership, bet365 will represent the Tour in Canada, as well as Australia and Europe.
