Hisatsune Leads WM Phoenix Open, Will Play With Idol Matsuyama

23-year-old Japanese golfer Ryo Hisatsune holds a one-stroke lead over veteran Hideki Matsuyama heading into the third round.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 9:31pm

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Ryo Hisatsune, a 23-year-old Japanese golfer, is atop the leaderboard at the 2026 Waste Management Phoenix Open after two rounds. Hisatsune, who idolized Hideki Matsuyama growing up, will be paired with the veteran PGA Tour star in Saturday's third round. Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, sits one shot behind Hisatsune at 10-under par.

Why it matters

The emergence of young Japanese stars on the PGA Tour, led by Matsuyama's success, has inspired the next generation of golfers from the country. Hisatsune's performance and pairing with his idol Matsuyama highlights this trend and the growing global reach of the sport.

The details

Hisatsune carded four birdies and an eagle on the back nine, including a birdie at the 17th hole after landing in the water, to take a one-stroke lead at 11-under par. Matsuyama, 33, had an impressive round of his own with six consecutive birdies, and will look to chase down Hisatsune in the third round. Other notable performances include Pierceson Coody and Chris Gotterup tied for third, while Brooks Koepka missed the cut in his second tournament back on the PGA Tour.

  • Hisatsune, 23, is atop the leaderboard after two rounds of the 2026 Waste Management Phoenix Open.
  • Matsuyama, 33, is one shot behind Hisatsune heading into Saturday's third round.

The players

Ryo Hisatsune

A 23-year-old Japanese golfer who is currently leading the 2026 Waste Management Phoenix Open after two rounds.

Hideki Matsuyama

A 33-year-old Japanese golfer who is the 2021 Masters champion and will be paired with Hisatsune in the third round, as Hisatsune idolized Matsuyama growing up.

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What they’re saying

“Absolutely a dream to play. Especially in … Phoenix.”

— Ryo Hisatsune

“I love playing here. The energy that's out there, so many fans cheering you on. You hit a bad shot, they'll boo you and there is some pressure, but I love it.”

— Hideki Matsuyama

What’s next

The third round of the 2026 Waste Management Phoenix Open will be played on Saturday, with Hisatsune and Matsuyama paired together.

The takeaway

The pairing of rising Japanese star Ryo Hisatsune and veteran idol Hideki Matsuyama highlights the growing influence of Japanese golfers on the PGA Tour, as a new generation seeks to follow in the footsteps of Matsuyama's major championship success.