A Thrilling Finish Awaits at the People's Open
The roar from the legendary 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale is echoing across the desert as the final round of the 2026 WM Phoenix Open enters its dramatic final stretch. The leaderboard is a tightly packed showcase of golf's elite, promising a Sunday finish for the ages. With the coveted trophy on the line, every shot carries immense weight, and the notoriously raucous crowd is soaking in every moment of the action.
As the final pairings navigate the treacherous back nine, the tension is palpable. The top of the WM Open leaderboard has been a revolving door all day, with several top-ranked players trading birdies and momentum swings. This is more than just a golf tournament; it's a spectacle, and the 2026 edition is delivering an unforgettable chapter.
The Contenders: Who Will Conquer the Chaos?
Currently holding a razor-thin lead is rising star Tom Kim, whose consistent iron play has put him in prime position. However, lurking just one stroke behind are major champions Scottie Scheffler and Collin Morikawa. Scheffler, a two-time winner of this event, is leveraging his course knowledge and incredible form to apply pressure. Morikawa, known for his precision, is quietly carding birdies and waiting for any mistake from the leaders.
The drama isn't limited to the final group. A host of other players are within striking distance, ready to post a low number in the clubhouse and make the leaders sweat. The drivable par-4 17th and the challenging 18th hole loom large, offering opportunities for both heroic eagles and disastrous bogeys. This tournament is far from over, and a playoff seems like a distinct possibility.
Current Top 5 on the Leaderboard (Live)
Here’s a look at the top of the leaderboard as the action unfolds. Scores are subject to change.
| Position | Player | Total Score | Today's Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Kim | -17 | -4 |
| T2 | Scottie Scheffler | -16 | -5 |
| T2 | Collin Morikawa | -16 | -3 |
| 4 | Max Homa | -14 | -6 |
| 5 | Sahith Theegala | -13 | -4 |
The Decisive Stretch: Holes 16, 17, and 18
Ultimately, the 2026 WM Phoenix Open will be decided on its famous finishing stretch. The par-3 16th, the 'Coliseum,' is the loudest hole in golf. While short, the pressure of thousands of fans can make the simple tee shot feel impossible. A player who can handle their nerves here gains a significant mental edge.
Next is the 17th, a classic risk-reward hole. Going for the green in one can lead to an eagle putt and a massive leaderboard jump, but water lurks, ready to penalize any errant shot. Finally, the 18th hole demands a precise tee shot and a well-judged approach to a guarded green. A par here to close out the tournament is a victory in itself.
As the sun begins to set on TPC Scottsdale, one player will emerge from this battle of wills to be crowned the champion. The combination of a packed leaderboard, a challenging course, and an unparalleled atmosphere makes this one of the must-see events in trending news for sports fans.
Who do you think will hoist the trophy? Follow the live action and check back for our complete tournament recap and analysis.