WM Phoenix Open 2026: Round 3 Recap

As the sun set over TPC Scottsdale, the 2026 WM Phoenix Open hosted a thrilling third round filled with suspense, shifting fortunes, and pin-seeking shots. The current leader, reigning champion Scottie Scheffler, maintains a slight edge with a 13-under par, showcasing his mastery of the course and the pressure-packed environment. With a competitive field hot on his heels, the stakes are rising as we head into the final round.

How the Round Unfolded

The day began under crystal-clear skies with temperatures hovering around 75°F, creating ideal conditions for birdies and eagles. Players faced a firm course with fast greens and well-placed pins that tested both skill and strategy. Early on, Jason Day surged ahead, rattling off four consecutive birdies to climb up the leaderboard. However, the momentum shifted after the turn, where a sudden gust of wind made club selection critical.

Scheffler’s poised play was evident when he capitalized on Day’s struggles after the 12th hole, where several players found themselves in precarious positions. A spectacular 50-foot eagle putt on the 13th hole by Scheffler turned the tide definitively, rejuvenating his confidence and solidifying his position at the top. As the round progressed, there were moments of tension as notable challengers like Jon Rahm and Patrick Cantlay attempted to find their rhythm. Yet both players could not maintain any substantial charge, leaving the leaderboard relatively unchanged behind Scheffler.

Standout Performances

Leading the pack, Scottie Scheffler’s steady play was marked by exceptional putting and a solid driver off the tee. He ended the round with a 4-under 67, extending his lead. Behind him, Jason Day finished strong with a 5-under 66, showcasing an aggressive approach that included seven birdies for the day.

Jon Rahm, once a pre-tournament favorite, rallied back for a 3-under 68 but fell just shy of impacting the leaderboard significantly. Meanwhile, Patrick Cantlay struggled with his iron play but managed to salvage a level-par round.

Other noteworthy performances included Shane Lowry and Sungjae Im, both finishing strong with finishes of -2 and -3 respectively, tapping into the back nine’s potential. With the cut line at 2-under par, several well-known favorites like Jordan Spieth and Brooks Koepka barely scraped into the weekend, raising the stakes for everyone in contention.

Course and Conditions

TPC Scottsdale continued to challenge the players with its notoriously lively greens and strategically placed bunkers. As the round progressed, the wind picked up, creating a challenge that even the best players struggled to overcome. The firm conditions and slick greens often led to unpredictable bounces. Some players benefitted from the conditions, while others experienced a grueling test of nerves. The overall atmosphere of the 16th-hole stadium, with its raucous fans, remained electric, providing a perfect backdrop for the drama unfolding on the course.

Standings Context

Heading into the final round, the FedEx Cup implications are significant, with many players looking to secure their positions for the playoffs. As it stands, the cut line settled at 2-under par, eliminating some prominent golfers. Scottie Scheffler’s strong performance keeps him in contention for a hefty jackpot in FedEx points, crucial for his season-long tally.

With many players in the chase within four strokes of Scheffler, excitement builds for a potential shoot-out on Sunday. The leaderboard is tight, and a strong final round could shake things up dramatically as players vie for the coveted title.

What to Watch Next

As we approach Sunday’s climactic final round, fans can look forward to an action-packed day. Tee times kick off in the morning, with the top groups taking to the course in the afternoon. Notable pairings include Scottie Scheffler alongside Jason Day, creating a competitive atmosphere as they battle not only the course but also each other.

Expect intense golf, dramatic swings, and perhaps even a few surprises as the players tackle the back nine, known for its risk-reward opportunities. With the stakes raised and competition fierce, the final round could deliver one of the most exhilarating finishes in recent tournament history.

What player do you think will come from behind to claim victory in the final round?