Hisatsune, Matsuyama Lead at WM Phoenix Open, Scheffler Survives Cut

WM Phoenix Open: Hisatsune Leads, Scheffler Extends Cut Streak

TPC Scottsdale witnessed a dramatic shift in fortunes during the second round of the 2026 WM Phoenix Open on Friday, as improved scoring conditions allowed several players to climb the leaderboard. At the top, a pair of Japanese golfers are making headlines.

Ryo Hisatsune fired a stunning 63 to reach 11 under par, taking the lead, while Hideki Matsuyama, a two-time champion at this event, carded a 64 earlier in the day to post 10 under. Matsuyama, historically comfortable at the Stadium Course, quickly moved into the lead after a strong front nine, finishing in 30.

Hisatsune’s surge came on the back nine, where he went 6 under through a five-hole stretch from No. 13 to No. 17. His impressive run was punctuated by a chip-in birdie on the par-4 17th, even after finding the water off the tee.

Scheffler Makes a Charge, Extends Cut Streak

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler faced a challenging situation after an opening-round 2-over 73, needing to perform well just to make the cut. He began his second round with four consecutive pars before a birdie on the fifth seemed to ignite his game. He followed with a 65, not only securing his place in the weekend rounds but also positioning himself to contend at 4 under.

After struggling with his iron play on Thursday, Scheffler appeared to regain his form on Friday, coupled with a hot putter. This performance extended his active made cut streak on the PGA Tour to an impressive 66 consecutive tournaments, following Xander Schauffele’s streak ending last week at Torrey Pines.

Leaderboard Snapshot

1. Ryo Hisatsune (-11)

Hisatsune enters the weekend with momentum, fresh off a T2 finish at the Farmers Insurance Open. The question remains whether he can maintain consistency throughout the tournament, as he has shown a tendency to be streaky, capable of both hot runs and occasional setbacks. He will play alongside compatriot Matsuyama on Saturday, a pairing that could provide a comfortable atmosphere amidst the energetic crowds at TPC Scottsdale.

The 23-year-old is seeking to establish himself on the PGA Tour in his third full season, and the WM Phoenix Open offers a significant platform to gain recognition.

Other Contenders

2. Hideki Matsuyama (-10)
T3. Chris Gotterup, Pierceson Coody (-8)
T5. Matt Fitzpatrick, Si Woo Kim, Akshay Bhatia, John Parry, Sahith Theegala, Jake Knapp (-7)

Matsuyama’s history at the WM Phoenix Open is notable, including wins in 2016 and 2017. While he hasn’t missed the cut here, his recent results have been less consistent since those victories, with only one top-10 finish in 2022. However, his performance on Friday suggests he’s poised to contend for a third Phoenix Open title, which would tie him with Phil Mickelson and Arnold Palmer for the most all-time wins at this event.

Chris Gotterup led after the first round but struggled on Friday, remaining at 8 under. Pierceson Coody, known for his accuracy off the tee, also remains a threat. Si Woo Kim delivered the low round of Friday with a 62, putting himself back into contention after a strong start to 2026.

Notable Missed Cuts

• Joel Dahmen (E)
• Brooks Koepka (+2)
• Corey Conners (+2)
• Jordan Spieth (+3)
• Billy Horschel (+3)
• Sam Burns (+5)

Brooks Koepka, after struggling to make the weekend at Torrey Pines, faced similar difficulties this week with his putting. Jordan Spieth, playing alongside Scheffler, couldn’t find his rhythm and finished just outside the cut line.

Updated WM Phoenix Open Odds

Odds via FanDuel Sportsbook

• Hideki Matsuyama (+230)
• Ryo Hisatsune (+470)
• Scottie Scheffler (10-1)
• Chris Gotterup (11-1)
• Si Woo Kim (13-1)
• Pierceson Coody (14-1)
• Sahith Theegala (17-1)
• Matt Fitzpatrick (19-1)

Matsuyama is the favorite given his history at the event. Considering the firm course conditions and the lack of significant wind, excellent scoring is anticipated throughout the weekend. Si Woo Kim at 13-1 presents a strong value pick, given his ability to string together birdies. Pierceson Coody also appears poised to remain near the top of the leaderboard and challenge for his first career win at 14-1.