In a thrilling turn of events at the WM Phoenix Open, Chris Gotterup emerged victorious, claiming the title on the first hole of the playoff after a stunning stumble by Hideki Matsuyama. The 2026 edition of the tournament witnessed an unexpected twist as Gotterup, fresh off his win at the Sony Open in Hawaii, secured his fourth PGA TOUR victory with a masterful display of golf. But here's where it gets controversial... Matsuyama, a two-time champion of this event, had been on a winning streak, converting all his previous 54-hole leads into victories. However, his luck seemed to run out as he struggled on the final day, hitting several wayward shots and ultimately finishing in a tie for second place. The turning point came on the 17th hole, where Matsuyama's tee shot veered into the water, and the 18th, where his drive landed in the church pew bunkers. Gotterup, meanwhile, maintained his composure, sinking a crucial birdie putt on the first playoff hole, securing his win. The top-ranked Scottie Scheffler also made a notable appearance, starting the tournament with a shaky first round but gradually climbing the leaderboard. His impressive performance, including a 72-foot putt on the 14th hole, showcased his resilience and skill. The WM Phoenix Open, known for its excitement and unpredictability, once again delivered a memorable spectacle, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the very last hole.
