The 2026 WM Phoenix Open is heating up, and the second round could be a game-changer. With a crowded leaderboard and some surprising performances, this PGA Tour event at TPC Scottsdale is shaping up to be one for the books. But here's where it gets controversial: can Hideki Matsuyama, the two-time champion, secure his third win here? Or will rising stars like Si Woo Kim and Min Woo Lee steal the spotlight? And this is the part most people miss: the boisterous crowd reactions at the infamous 16th hole, which Matsuyama claims don’t faze him—except, well, at the 16th. Intrigued? Let’s dive in.
The second round of the 2026 WM Phoenix Open kicked off on February 6, 2026, with golfers vying for position on the leaderboard. Hideki Matsuyama, a fan favorite and two-time winner of this event, started strong, shooting an impressive 7-under 64. But he’s not alone in his quest for the top spot. Si Woo Kim, who struggled in the first round with a +2, bounced back with a stunning 9-under 62 through 16 holes, tying Matsuyama for the best score of the day—and even recording an eagle on the Par 5 13th hole. Min Woo Lee, who ended the first round at even par, fired a -6 through 14 holes in the second round, while Stephan Jaeger and Tom Kim also made significant moves, each posting -5 for the day.
But here’s the real question: Who will make the cut, and who will be left behind? The leaderboard is packed with talent, and every stroke counts. Matsuyama, however, isn’t just competing—he’s dominating. By early afternoon, his 7-under score was bettered only by Kim, and he later extended his lead to three strokes over Chris Gotterup with birdies on the fourth and fifth holes, moving to -11 overall. With three holes left to play, Matsuyama’s performance has been nothing short of remarkable.
Controversial interpretation alert: While Matsuyama’s consistency is undeniable, some argue that the pressure of the crowd and the course could still trip him up. What do you think? Could this be the year someone else takes the crown?
Meanwhile, Brian Campbell and Sam Stevens are also making waves. Campbell is -4 through nine holes, tying Stevens for third place at -7, just two strokes behind Matsuyama. Stevens, who shot -5 in the first round, continued his strong play, birdying the first two holes of the second round to sit comfortably in second place.
Looking back at the first round, Chris Gotterup led the pack with an 8-under 63, followed by Matt Fitzpatrick at -6. The Top 10 also included Pierceson Coody, Nicolai Hojgaard, Sam Stevens, Michael Thorbjornsen, Daniel Berger, Jake Knapp, Max McGreevy, Maverick McNealy, Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen, and Kevin Roy—all tied at -4 or better. But here’s the kicker: With so many golfers within striking distance, the second round is anyone’s game.
For those eager to catch the action, the WM Phoenix Open is airing on Golf Channel from 1:30-5:30 p.m. MST and streaming on ESPN+ from 7:15 a.m.-5:30 p.m. MST. Sirius XM will also provide radio coverage from noon to 6 p.m. MST. And if you’re wondering about tee times, the second round started early, with notable pairings like Viktor Hovland, Hideki Matsuyama, and Collin Morikawa teeing off at 7:53 a.m. from Tee No. 10.
But wait, there’s more: After the golf, the Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens at 3:30 p.m., featuring performances by Nelly, Ludacris, and Ja Rule. It’s not just about the golf—it’s an experience.
So, what’s your take? Can Matsuyama secure his third WM Phoenix Open title, or will a new champion emerge? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to azcentral.com for more local sports coverage. This tournament is far from over, and every shot counts!
