In an exciting twist at the WM Phoenix Open, Hideki Matsuyama has managed to secure a slender one-shot lead as he heads into the final round. The competition is heating up, particularly with England's Matt Fitzpatrick closely trailing, just two shots behind and ready to make a significant push on the last day.
Matsuyama, who completed the third round with a score of three-under-par 68, narrowly missed a chance to extend his lead when he failed to sink a 15-foot birdie putt on the final hole.
The seasoned golfer from Japan, aged 33, has a notable history at the Phoenix Open, having previously clinched the title in both 2016 and 2017. He initially shared the lead with fellow countryman Ryo Hisatsune; however, after Hisatsune bogeyed the 18th hole, Matsuyama took the sole lead, leaving Hisatsune one shot behind at the end of the round.
Joining Hisatsune in a tie for second place are Nicolai Hojgaard, Si Woo Kim, and Maverick McNealy, all looking to challenge Matsuyama's position. Meanwhile, Fitzpatrick finds himself in a tie for fourth at 11-under-par, alongside American players Michael Thorbjornsen, Jake Knapp, and Akshay Bhatia, each eager to capitalize on any mistakes made by Matsuyama.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler delivered a strong performance, finishing his third round with a score of 67, placing him five strokes off the lead. Scheffler is aiming for his 21st title on the PGA Tour and his second victory in 2026, following his win at the American Express tournament earlier in January. He recalls his incredible comeback four years ago, where he triumphed despite being nine shots behind at one point, and hopes to replicate that success this time around.
In a recent interview with PGATour.com, Scheffler expressed his sentiments about his game, saying, "I've always believed you can't really find your rhythm during tournament week, but I discovered a slight adjustment in my grip yesterday that has helped me secure my hold on the club more effectively. Today, I struck the ball much better. Yesterday felt somewhat bewildering at times, but today was different; I felt more in control of my game, which is evident from my cleaner scorecard."
Be sure not to miss the thrilling conclusion of the WM Phoenix Open, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Golf starting at 5 PM on Sunday. The coverage will also continue on Sky Sports Main Event at 8 PM, and you can enjoy it without any contracts on NOW.
