Matsuyama Captures Historic Third WM Phoenix Open Title in Front of Record Crowd

Hideki Matsuyama etched his name deeper into WM Phoenix Open history on Sunday, capturing his third title at TPC Scottsdale with a closing performance that showcased the precision and composure that has defined his career. The Japanese star finished at 13-under par, holding off a crowded leaderboard that included four players tied at 12-under: compatriot Ryo Hisatsune, Denmark's Nicolai Højgaard, American Maverick McNealy, and South Korea's Si Woo Kim.

Matsuyama entered Sunday's final round with a narrow one-shot lead after posting a 3-under 68 on Saturday, and he never relinquished control despite the pressure from multiple challengers. The victory marks his 12th PGA Tour title and cements his status as one of the tournament's all-time greats, joining an exclusive club that includes only three other players to have won the event three times. His previous victories came in consecutive years in 2016 and 2017, making this win a decade-spanning achievement at the iconic Arizona venue.

The 35-year-old's performance throughout the week demonstrated why he remains one of the tour's most consistent performers. True to form, Matsuyama maintained his remarkable record of never losing a tournament when holding the solo lead entering the final round, converting his sixth such opportunity into victory. His ball-striking and course management proved superior on the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale, where he navigated the famous 16th hole and its raucous crowds with characteristic calm.

The tournament played out in ideal conditions, with warm temperatures and clear skies drawing massive crowds to witness the action. The atmosphere reached fever pitch on the famous par-3 16th hole, where tens of thousands of fans packed the stadium-style seating to create one of golf's most electric environments. Matsuyama's ability to perform under such intense scrutiny further validated his reputation as one of the game's premier competitors.

For the runners-up, the near-miss stung differently for each contender. Hisatsune, seeking his first PGA Tour victory, came agonizingly close to making it a Japanese sweep at the top of the leaderboard. Højgaard and McNealy both had opportunities to seize control but couldn't find the low rounds needed on Sunday. Kim, a major champion with experience in big moments, ultimately couldn't apply enough pressure to force Matsuyama into mistakes.

Matsuyama's triumph continues what has been a solid start to the 2026 PGA Tour season and reinforces his position among golf's elite players. With this victory, he moves up in the FedEx Cup standings and builds momentum heading into the spring stretch of the tour schedule. The win also serves as a reminder that Matsuyama remains a formidable threat at any venue, particularly one where he has demonstrated mastery over the years.