Streamer Banned From PGA Tour After Disruptive Stunt at WM Phoenix Open

Jack Doherty issues defiant response after being kicked out and banned for paying a fan to yell during a golfer's backswing.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Popular streamer Jack Doherty was banned from future PGA Tour events after he paid a fan $100 to yell "jackass" during Mackenzie Hughes' backswing at the WM Phoenix Open. Doherty and his group were escorted off the course by authorities for trespassing, and a PGA Tour official subsequently banned Doherty from attending future tournaments. In a video response, Doherty defended his "harmless prank" and blamed the "soft" reaction, despite disrupting a professional golfer during competition.

Why it matters

Doherty's stunt highlights the growing tension between social media influencers seeking engagement and the need to maintain the integrity and decorum of professional sporting events. As more streamers and content creators look to capitalize on live events, golf and other sports leagues must balance fan access with protecting the competitive environment for athletes.

The details

During his live stream at the WM Phoenix Open, Doherty approached a fan and offered him $100 to yell "jackass" in Mackenzie Hughes' backswing as he was preparing to hit a shot from a fairway bunker. The fan accepted the offer, and Doherty's group was quickly escorted off the course by authorities for trespassing. A PGA Tour official then banned Doherty from attending future Tour events.

  • The incident occurred during the third round of the WM Phoenix Open on February 4, 2026.

The players

Jack Doherty

A popular streamer with over 15 million YouTube subscribers, known for pranks and stunts that have drawn criticism.

Mackenzie Hughes

A professional golfer competing at the WM Phoenix Open.

PGA Tour

The governing body for professional golf in the United States and North America.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to disrupt professional sporting events and compromise the integrity of the competition.”

— PGA Tour Official

“The prank was harmless, and everyone is just too soft these days. I'm not going to lose any sleep over this.”

— Jack Doherty, Streamer (Instagram)

What’s next

The PGA Tour has stated that Doherty is banned from attending any future Tour events, and authorities may pursue additional charges for trespassing.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the growing challenges professional sports leagues face in balancing fan engagement and access with maintaining the integrity of their competitions. As social media influencers continue to seek opportunities to boost their profiles, sports organizations must establish clear boundaries to protect their athletes and events.