Hideki Matsuyama absolutely dominated Round 2 at the WM Phoenix Open, firing a stunning 7-under 64 to seize the lead at 10-under through 36 holes. The two-time champion made six consecutive birdies on the back nine, cementing his position as the favorite heading into the weekend at TPC Scottsdale.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Matsuyama’s Score: 10-under through 36 holes with a two-stroke lead over nearest challengers
- Round 2 Performance: Shot 7-under 64 with six consecutive birdies from holes 13-18
- Historic Streak: One of only eight golfers in Phoenix Open history to birdie six straight holes
- Tournament Context: Seeking to become the fifth three-time winner of the WM Phoenix Open
Six-Birdie Blitz Lifts Matsuyama into Command
World Baseball Classic 2026 bracket revealed: which teams advance and when to watch
World Cup 2026: three teams set to inherit Iran’s qualification spot
Matsuyama’s explosive performance on the back nine gave fans exactly what they came to see. Starting his round on Hole 10, the veteran golfer played par golf through the opening three holes before the fireworks began. From Hole 13 through Hole 18, he strung together an impressive streak of birdies that delighted the energetic TPC Scottsdale crowd.
The precision golf was on full display during this run. On the par-5 Hole 13, he drove 309 yards and stuck his third to just 9 feet for the birdie. At Hole 14, he drove it 332 yards and approached to 3.5 feet. The momentum never stopped as he continued firing at pins with aggressive play that left him in scoring position after nearly every shot.
Crowd Energy Fuels Championship Potential
Caitlin Clark powers Team USA to dominant win over Senegal in FIBA World Cup qualifier opener
USA moves into WBC quarterfinals after Italy stuns Mexico
Matsuyama has always thrived in the unique atmosphere at Phoenix Open. His two previous victories came in 2016 and 2017, and he credits the passionate fans with elevating his game on this dramatic course. When asked about the boisterous crowd at the infamous Hole 16, he expressed genuine appreciation for the energy surrounding him each shot.
The Japanese star noted that while the crowd can be loud and demanding, he welcomes the pressure and challenge. He drained a 29-foot putt at Hole 16 to continue his birdie streak, demonstrating clutch putting when it mattered most. His calm demeanor and experience at TPC Scottsdale clearly benefit him in high-pressure moments.
Leaderboard Update and Championship Contenders
Matsuyama’s lead extends to two strokes over his closest competitors entering Round 3. Several other golfers posted impressive second-round scores to keep pace, including Si Woo Kim, who shot an outstanding 9-under 62 to vault into the mix. The leaderboard remains crowded with championship caliber players pushing hard to catch the leader.
| Position | Player | Score (36 holes) |
| 1 | Hideki Matsuyama | -10 |
| T2 | Si Woo Kim, Others | -8 |
| T3 | Multiple Players | -7 |
“I love playing here. The energy that’s out there, so many fans cheering you on. You hit a bad shot, they’ll boo you and there is some pressure, but I love it. I really like and I’m grateful for how many fans come out and watch us play golf.”
Hideki Matsuyama, WM Phoenix Open Leader
Recent Form Suggests Momentum is on Matsuyama’s Side
Matsuyama’s strong weekend performance follows a recent victory at the Hero World Challenge in December, where he won his second title at that prestigious event. Prior to the Phoenix Open, he posted solid finishes at the Sony Open and the Farmers Insurance Open, suggesting his game has found rhythm heading into this charge. The two-time champion appears fully engaged and primed for another compelling run at TPC Scottsdale.
With his impeccable record at this venue and demonstrated ability to execute under pressure, Matsuyama will be the favorite to hoist the trophy on Sunday. The question now becomes whether his competitors can close the two-stroke gap and force a thrilling finale, or if his masterclass performance proves too much to overcome.
Can Matsuyama Claim Third Phoenix Open Title in Final Rounds?
Matsuyama stands on the brink of history. Winning this weekend would make him just the fifth three-time winner in WM Phoenix Open history, joining an elite group of champions. His lead is comfortable but not insurmountable, and TPC Scottsdale can produce dramatic swings over 36 holes of competitive golf. Will his championship experience and home course comfort hold up under Saturday and Sunday pressure?
Sources
- Golfweek – Coverage of Matsuyama’s six-birdie streak and tournament leadership position
- The Arizona Republic – Live leaderboard updates and Round 2 analysis from TPC Scottsdale
- PGA Tour – Official tournament scores and player statistics through Round 2
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.