Gotterup Grabs Phoenix Open Title in Dramatic Playoff Finish
Chris Gotterup secured a thrilling victory at the Waste Management Phoenix Open on Sunday, defeating Hideki Matsuyama in a sudden-death playoff. The 26-year-old’s win marks his second PGA Tour title of the 2026 season, following his earlier triumph at the Sony Open in Hawaii.
A Final Round Charge and Matsuyama’s Misfortune
Gotterup closed with a remarkable final-round 64, punctuated by five birdies in his last six holes, to reach 16 under par. However, the tournament hung in the balance as Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, had a chance to win on the 72nd hole. He missed the putt, leading to a playoff showdown.
The drama intensified on the first playoff hole, where Matsuyama’s tee shot found the water. This allowed Gotterup to capitalize, sinking a long birdie putt to claim the championship.
Crowd Interference Impacts Matsuyama
Matsuyama’s final round was not without its challenges. He faced distractions from the gallery, including a disruption during his downswing on the 18th hole, reportedly caused by a security person dropping a chair. Earlier, a spectator yelled as he began his stroke on the 72nd hole. These incidents drew boos from the crowd and highlighted ongoing issues with unruly fan behavior at the event. A streamer had previously been banned for paying patrons to yell during players’ swings.
Scheffler and Fitzpatrick Finish Strong
Scottie Scheffler finished in a tie for third place after a final-round 64, while England’s Matt Fitzpatrick carded three birdies in his last five holes to end the tournament in ninth, three shots back.
Gotterup’s Reaction and Future Outlook
“I didn’t think this would happen, especially after Friday and Saturday. But here we are,” Gotterup said after his win. He expressed gratitude for the support of his girlfriend and fans watching at home.
FAQ
Q: Where was the Waste Management Phoenix Open held?
A: TPC Scottsdale, Arizona.
Q: How many PGA Tour titles does Chris Gotterup now have?
A: Four.
Q: What caused the disruption to Hideki Matsuyama’s swing on the 18th hole?
A: Reports indicate a security person dropping a chair.
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