Matsuyama Leads Phoenix Open by 1 Shot After 68

Scheffler Lurks Close Behind in Second Place

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Hideki Matsuyama, a Japanese golfer, shot a round of 68 to take a 1-shot lead at the Phoenix Open. His compatriot Ryo Hisatsune was in the final group with him. Scottie Scheffler is close behind in second place.

Why it matters

The Phoenix Open is a high-profile PGA Tour event that attracts many of the top golfers in the world. Matsuyama's strong performance puts him in position to potentially win his second Phoenix Open title, while Scheffler is looking to continue his recent success on the PGA Tour.

The details

Matsuyama carded a 68 in the third round to take a 1-shot lead over Scottie Scheffler. The two Japanese players, Matsuyama and Hisatsune, were paired together in the final group. Matsuyama is seeking his second Phoenix Open title, having won the event in 2016.

  • The third round of the Phoenix Open was played on Saturday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Hideki Matsuyama

A Japanese professional golfer who has won multiple PGA Tour events, including the 2016 Phoenix Open.

Ryo Hisatsune

A Japanese professional golfer who was paired with Matsuyama in the final group of the Phoenix Open.

Scottie Scheffler

An American professional golfer who is currently in second place, 1 shot behind Matsuyama, at the Phoenix Open.

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What’s next

The final round of the Phoenix Open will be played on Sunday, February 9, 2026, where Matsuyama will look to hold on to his 1-shot lead and claim his second title at the event.

The takeaway

Matsuyama's strong performance puts him in a great position to potentially win his second Phoenix Open title, while Scheffler continues to show his ability to compete with the best players on the PGA Tour.