Chris Gotterup captured the WM Phoenix Open title on Sunday, posting a 16‑under‑par total that put him one stroke behind tournament‑leader Hideki Matsuyama and forced a sudden‑death playoff on the 18th hole.
Gotterup’s winning surge
Gotterup’s birdie on the final hole capped a run of six birdies in his last seven holes, delivering his second PGA Tour win of 2026 and his second victory in just three starts on the circuit.
His powerful drive of over 360 yards set up a wedge that landed just short of the pin, and two solid putts secured the birdie that sealed the win.
Playoff showdown
The playoff was set to be decided on the 18th, where Gotterup had birdied in regulation while Matsuyama had bogeyed.
On the first extra hole, Matsuyama’s tee shot found the water, forcing him to back off and ultimately miss a par‑saving putt, while Gotterup safely rested in the fairway.
Later, Matsuyama produced a stunning approach that settled 25 feet from the hole, leaving a challenging par putt, as Gotterup opted for a conservative 90‑yard shot that found the center of the green.
Matsuyama’s mixed fortunes
Despite leading after the front nine with a flawless short game, Matsuyama missed every fairway on that stretch and only hit four greens, yet still sat at 17‑under‑par entering the final round.
His short‑game prowess kept him in contention, but a series of water‑hazard encounters on the back nine and during the playoff highlighted the fine margins that can decide a major tournament.
Other contenders
Michael Thorbjornsen, Si Woo Kim and Ryo Hisatsune each finished at 15‑under, sharing third place, while World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler posted a 15‑under total to set the clubhouse benchmark.
Viktor Hovland, Akshay Bhatia and Jake Knapp rounded out the chase group, each within a few strokes of the leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the WM Phoenix Open?
Chris Gotterup won the WM Phoenix Open, finishing at 16‑under‑par.
What caused the playoff between Gotterup and Matsuyama?
The playoff resulted because Gotterup birdied the 18th in regulation while Matsuyama bogeyed, leaving them tied after 72 holes.
How did Hideki Matsuyama perform on the front nine?
Matsuyama led after the front nine with a strong short game, despite missing every fairway and only hitting four greens, and was 15‑under‑par at the turn.
What do you think will be the decisive factor in the upcoming playoff?
