Scottsdale, Arizona – Ryo Hisatsune of Japan maintains a narrow lead at the , 2026 WM Phoenix Open, edging out fellow countryman Hideki Matsuyama after a compelling third round at TPC Scottsdale. The tournament, known for its boisterous atmosphere and challenging course, continues to draw significant attention as players battle for position heading into the final day.
Hisatsune’s strong performance on included an eagle and four birdies in his final six holes, propelling him to the top of the leaderboard. He finished the day with an eight-under par 63, establishing a one-stroke advantage over Matsuyama, who had earlier set the pace with a 64.
Matsuyama, a perennial favorite among golf enthusiasts, demonstrated his skill and consistency throughout the tournament. His third-round score of 68 showcased his ability to navigate the demanding course conditions. Notably, during the third round, Matsuyama executed a remarkable 152-yard approach shot to within 16 feet of the hole, setting up a crucial birdie opportunity. He also achieved a 134-yard approach to 11 feet, resulting in another birdie. Earlier in the competition, he displayed precision with a 78-yard approach to just 3 feet, also leading to a birdie.
The tournament has seen a flurry of impressive shots from various players. Matt Fitzpatrick, for example, delivered an outstanding chip-in birdie, hailed as the “Shot of the Day.” Akshay Bhatia also impressed with multiple birdie putts, sinking shots from 12, 14, and 20 feet on different holes. Other notable performances included Si Woo Kim’s powerful 324-yard drive on the 17th hole, setting up a birdie attempt, and Stephan Jaeger’s successful 25-foot birdie putt on the 16th.
Play was temporarily suspended on due to darkness, requiring three players to complete their second rounds on morning before the cut was made. This delay added an extra layer of complexity to the competition, testing the players’ endurance and adaptability.
Several other prominent golfers are within striking distance of the lead. Scottie Scheffler, Ryan Fox, and Zecheng Dou teed off together on morning, while Collin Morikawa, Xander Schauffele, and Hank Lebioda followed later in the day. The pairings reflect the competitive nature of the tournament, with leading players grouped together to intensify the pressure.
The WM Phoenix Open is not only a significant event in the PGA Tour calendar but also a major economic driver for the Scottsdale area. The tournament attracts a large number of spectators, generating substantial revenue for local businesses and hotels. The event’s popularity is further enhanced by its unique atmosphere, often described as one of the most energetic and enthusiastic on the tour.
Television coverage of the tournament is being broadcast on Golf Channel and CBS, with streaming options available on PGA Tour Live on ESPN+. Sirius XM is also providing live radio coverage, allowing fans to follow the action wherever they are. The broadcast schedule ensures that golf enthusiasts around the world can stay updated on the latest developments.
The tournament’s competitive landscape is further highlighted by the performances of players like Nicolai Højgaard, who made a birdie from 98 yards, and Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen, who sunk an 18-foot birdie putt. These moments of brilliance underscore the high level of skill and determination on display at TPC Scottsdale.
As the tournament enters its final round, the focus will undoubtedly be on Hisatsune and Matsuyama, but the presence of other talented golfers means that the outcome remains uncertain. The challenging course conditions and the pressure of competing in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd will test the players’ mental fortitude and technical abilities. The final round promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a captivating tournament.
Hideki Matsuyama’s equipment choices remain consistent, reflecting his preference for reliability over chasing the latest trends. His commitment to his trusted gear underscores his focus on precision and control, qualities that have defined his successful career.
