Scottie Scheffler Aims for 3rd WM Phoenix Open Title

World No. 1 Golfer Trails Leader Hideki Matsuyama by 5 Strokes Heading into Final Round

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Scottie Scheffler remains in contention at the 2026 WM Phoenix Open, trailing two-time champion Hideki Matsuyama by five strokes heading into the final round. Despite a frustrating start, Scheffler has rallied with consecutive rounds of 65 and 67, showcasing his resilience and consistency as he seeks his third Phoenix Open title.

Why it matters

The WM Phoenix Open is one of the PGA Tour's most high-profile events, and a victory for the world's top-ranked player Scottie Scheffler would further cement his status as one of the game's elite. Scheffler's ability to overcome early struggles and remain in contention highlights his mental toughness and technical prowess.

The details

Scheffler opened the tournament with a 2-over 73, displaying visible frustration. However, he responded with rounds of 65 and 67 to surge back into contention. Matsuyama, a two-time champion at TPC Scottsdale, holds a one-shot lead after a 3-under 68 on Saturday. Scheffler believes a strong start on the front nine could build momentum for a challenging back nine, as he aims to overcome Matsuyama's lead.

  • Scheffler opened the tournament with a 2-over 73 on Thursday.
  • Scheffler shot 65 and 67 in the second and third rounds on Friday and Saturday.
  • The final round is scheduled for Sunday.

The players

Scottie Scheffler

The world's number one ranked golfer, seeking his third WM Phoenix Open title.

Hideki Matsuyama

A two-time champion of the WM Phoenix Open, currently leading the tournament by one stroke.

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What they’re saying

“Going to need a special round.”

— Scottie Scheffler (newsy-today.com)

“One of the things I'm most proud of is the consistent results I've had over the years.”

— Scottie Scheffler (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

Scheffler believes a strong start on the front nine could build momentum for a challenging back nine as he aims to overcome Matsuyama's lead and capture his third WM Phoenix Open title.

The takeaway

Scottie Scheffler's resilience and consistency have kept him in contention at the WM Phoenix Open, as he seeks to overcome a five-stroke deficit and claim his third title at the prestigious event.