Matsuyama Looks to Defend WM Phoenix Open Title

Hideki Matsuyama, a two-time champion, is the favorite as the PGA Tour heads to TPC Scottsdale.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 2:07pm

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The PGA Tour heads to Scottsdale, Arizona this week for the WM Phoenix Open, one of the most raucous events on the calendar. Hideki Matsuyama, a two-time champion of the event, is the favorite as he looks to defend his title from last year. The course at TPC Scottsdale is known for low scores, with the winning total typically reaching the 20-under par range. Strong iron play and putting will be key to success this week.

Why it matters

The WM Phoenix Open is one of the most popular and well-attended events on the PGA Tour, drawing massive crowds to the par-3 16th hole in particular. Matsuyama's success at this event, with two prior wins, makes him a top contender, but several other players like Rickie Fowler and Jordan Spieth also have strong course history. This event comes at a pivotal time on the schedule, right before the first of four "Signature Events" with much larger purses.

The details

TPC Scottsdale plays just over 7,200 yards but the high elevation means the ball travels further, leading to plenty of birdie opportunities. The course features wide fairways and a lack of rough, rewarding players who can attack the greens with their irons. Putting will also be crucial, as evidenced by the fact that the last two winners, Thomas Detry and Charley Hoffman, were among the best putters that week.

  • The WM Phoenix Open takes place this week, February 2-5, 2026.
  • Thomas Detry won the event last year with a tournament-record 24-under par score.

The players

Hideki Matsuyama

A two-time winner of the WM Phoenix Open, Matsuyama has had a lot of success at TPC Scottsdale and is the favorite heading into this year's event.

Rickie Fowler

Fowler is a past champion of the WM Phoenix Open, with seven top-15 finishes at the event including a pair of runner-up results.

Jordan Spieth

Spieth has five top-10 finishes at the WM Phoenix Open, including a T4 last year, and will look to end a long winless drought this week.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.