Matsuyama Leads Phoenix Open by One Shot Going Into Final

Hideki Matsuyama is one round away from potentially winning his third Phoenix Open title, leading the tournament at 13-under par after Saturday's play in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The Japanese star shot a 3-under 68 to edge ahead of a packed leaderboard that includes five players sitting just one shot back at 12-under. Among them is his fellow countryman Ryo Hisatsune, who shot 70 after a memorable third round playing alongside Matsuyama in the final pairing.

"Kind of a first today for Japan to have two Japanese pros play in a final group," Matsuyama said through a translator. He added that while he hoped they could repeat the pairing on Sunday, his main focus is simply playing well and staying on top.

The tournament nearly saw both Japanese players tied heading into the final round. Hisatsune matched Matsuyama through 17 holes but couldn't get up-and-down from a greenside bunker on 18, settling for bogey while Matsuyama made par to claim the solo lead.

Matsuyama's round featured some thrilling moments, including a 27-foot birdie putt that rolled over a swale on the par-3 fourth hole. He added birdies at the 10th and 13th holes to reach 13-under, though he couldn't capitalize on late opportunities at 17 and 18.

The biggest storyline might be lurking five shots back. World number one Scottie Scheffler, who was in danger of missing his first cut since 2022 after opening with a 73, has roared back with rounds of 65 and 67. He won this same tournament in 2022 by rallying from nine shots back for his first PGA Tour victory.

"Going to need a special round," Scheffler admitted. "You never know what can happen."

Why This Inspires

This tournament showcases the global reach of golf and how players from different backgrounds can inspire entire generations. Hisatsune called it a "dream" to play in the final pairing with Matsuyama, the player who inspired so many young Japanese golfers to pursue the sport professionally.

Now that dream has become reality, with both players competing at the highest level. Whether Matsuyama claims his third Phoenix Open title or Scheffler stages another dramatic comeback, Sunday promises an exciting finish with multiple compelling storylines.

The stage is set for a memorable final round in the Arizona desert.