PGA Tour Recap: WM Phoenix Open Round 3 Highlights

In another thrilling day at the 2026 WM Phoenix Open, the golfer who topped the leaderboard at the end of the round was none other than the talented young star, Sam Burns. With an impressive third-round score of 65, Burns has solidified his position, now leading by three strokes as he heads into the final day. The competitive context remains fierce, with several seasoned contenders hot on his trail, ready to make a move.

How the Round Unfolded

As dawn broke over TPC Scottsdale, players were greeted with pristine conditions. The fairways were firm, and the greens rolled smoother than ever, creating an atmosphere primed for low scores. However, the challenge was met with fluctuations in wind intensity throughout the day, meaning players had to adjust their strategies accordingly.

The excitement began to build on the front nine, where Burns surged ahead, pulling off three consecutive birdies on holes 4, 5, and 6. His strong start not only shifted the momentum in his favor but also set the tone for the rest of the field. Not far behind, defending champion Jon Rahm staged a late rally, catching fire with back-to-back birdies on holes 13 and 14 that could have reshaped the leaderboard.

As the back nine approached, there were moments of brilliance and setbacks. Players like Patrick Cantlay and Viktor Hovland attempted to gain ground, but inconsistent putting and a couple of wayward drives contributed to their frustrations. The tension escalated as Burns struggled momentarily on the 14th hole, but he quickly regained his composure with a thrilling birdie on 15 to reestablish his three-shot lead.

Standout Performances

While Burns stole the show, several other performances stood out. Jon Rahm ended the round at 4-under for the day, marking himself as a serious competitor going into the final stretch. With a total score of 201, he is positioned to make a charge if he continues his strong play.

Working his way into contention, Patrick Cantlay had a rollercoaster day marked by inconsistency. However, his resilience showed with a crafted 68, placing him in striking distance for the final round at 204 total.

Rookie sensation Davis Riley turned heads with his own 66, propelling him into the top ten. This marked a significant achievement for Riley, showcasing his burgeoning talent on such a prominent stage.

Course and Conditions

The TPC Scottsdale course continues to play a vital role in shaping the tournament. Recent modifications to the greens have rewarded players with accuracy, while the firm fairways have added a layer of complexity. Reports indicate that even a slight downwind can turn an otherwise manageable approach shot into a nightmare, emphasizing the importance of precision and course management.

The weather remained manageable, with temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit, but the unpredictable gusts kept players on their toes. As we enter the final day, these factors will be crucial in determining who will emerge victorious.

Standings Context

As round three concluded, the cut line fell at even-par 213. Notable names that failed to clear the cut included Louis Oosthuizen and Webb Simpson, both of whom will be disappointed with their performances.

In the context of the FedEx Cup standings, this tournament is crucial for players looking to bolster their positions as the season progresses. With only a few events remaining before the playoffs, opportunities to accumulate points are invaluable. Sam Burns, currently positioned at the top, has a prime chance to significantly increase his FedEx Cup ranking with a win.

What to Watch Next

Looking ahead, the final round promises an electric atmosphere, especially with a big crowd anticipated at TPC Scottsdale. The final tee times for Sunday will see Burns paired with Rahm, two of the tour’s most exciting talents in a showdown that could alter the landscape of the tournament.

The excitement surrounding this pairing is palpable, as both players have proven capable of performing under pressure. Alongside them, keep an eye on Patrick Cantlay, who will look to capitalize on any mistakes the leaders might make.

As the sun rises on the final day, it’s shaping up to be an exhilarating conclusion to the WM Phoenix Open.

In the spirit of friendly fan engagement, what do you think Sam Burns needs to do to secure the win in the final round?