Matsuyama Chases Third WM Phoenix Open Title in Tight Sunday Showdown

Four players trail the two-time champion by just one shot heading into the final round at TPC Scottsdale.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The WM Phoenix Open is set for a dramatic conclusion, with Hideki Matsuyama poised to potentially become only the fourth player to win the tournament three times. Matsuyama, who is already a two-time champion at TPC Scottsdale, holds a slim one-shot lead over a crowded leaderboard that includes four players just one shot back and another four within two shots of the lead.

Why it matters

Matsuyama has a chance to cement his legacy at the WM Phoenix Open, which is known for its raucous atmosphere and enthusiastic 'Breakfast Club' fans who arrive early on Saturday to set the tone. The tight leaderboard and pressure of the final round could lead to an unpredictable outcome, with the tournament's unique community spirit playing a key role.

The details

Matsuyama is in position to make history at the WM Phoenix Open, where he is seeking to become only the fourth player to win the tournament three times. However, he faces a crowded leaderboard, with four players trailing him by just one shot and another four within two shots of the lead. The tournament's atmosphere, driven by the dedicated 'Breakfast Club' fans, is a crucial element of the event's identity as 'The People's Open' and could impact the final-round outcome.

  • The WM Phoenix Open is heading to its dramatic conclusion on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • Matsuyama is the two-time defending champion at TPC Scottsdale, having won the tournament in 2024 and 2025.

The players

Hideki Matsuyama

A two-time champion of the WM Phoenix Open, Matsuyama is seeking to become only the fourth player to win the tournament three times.

TPC Scottsdale

The host course of the WM Phoenix Open, known for its raucous atmosphere and enthusiastic 'Breakfast Club' fans.

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What’s next

The final round of the WM Phoenix Open will take place on Sunday, February 9, 2026, with Hideki Matsuyama looking to make history and become the fourth player to win the tournament three times.

The takeaway

The tight leaderboard and enthusiastic fan support at the WM Phoenix Open set the stage for an unpredictable and thrilling final round, where Hideki Matsuyama has the opportunity to cement his legacy as one of the tournament's all-time greats.