A Shocking Finale at The People's Open
The roar from the legendary 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale could be heard for miles as the final round of the 2026 WM Phoenix Open delivered one of the most electrifying finishes in recent memory. The highly anticipated Sunday showdown saw the wm open leaderboard shift dramatically, culminating in a surprising victory that has sent shockwaves through the golf world. While pre-tournament favorites battled fiercely, it was a dark horse who navigated the pressure cooker of the final holes to hoist the trophy.
The Battle Down the Stretch
All eyes were on the final pairing, featuring two-time major champion Collin Morikawa and rising star Tom Kim. They traded birdies and pars throughout the day, keeping the massive galleries on the edge of their seats. The leaderboard was a logjam for most of the afternoon, with no player able to create significant separation. The turning point, as it so often does in Scottsdale, came during the infamous three-hole stretch from 15 to 17.
Morikawa, holding a one-shot lead, found the water on the drivable par-4 17th, leading to a costly bogey. Meanwhile, playing two groups ahead, 28-year-old Cameron Young was putting together a masterful back nine. After a crucial birdie on the chaotic 16th, Young hit a stunning approach on 18 to set up a final birdie, posting a clubhouse lead of -18 that seemed just out of reach for the faltering leaders behind him.
Final WM Phoenix Open Leaderboard 2026
The final standings reflect a day of high drama, clutch putts, and costly mistakes. Here's a look at the top finishers who navigated the desert course to top the wm open leaderboard.
| Position | Player | To Par | Final Round Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cameron Young | -18 | 65 (-6) |
| 2 | Collin Morikawa | -17 | 68 (-3) |
| T3 | Tom Kim | -16 | 68 (-3) |
| T3 | Max Homa | -16 | 66 (-5) |
| 5 | Sahith Theegala | -15 | 67 (-4) |
What This Victory Means
For Cameron Young, this victory is a career-defining moment. After several close calls and runner-up finishes in major championships, this win at one of the PGA Tour's premier events validates his status as one of the game's elite talents. The win catapults him up the FedExCup standings and secures his spot in all of the season's signature events. For the golf world, it’s a reminder that on any given Sunday, a new star can be born amidst the chaos and celebration that only the WM Phoenix Open can provide. This trending news story sets an exciting tone for the remainder of the PGA Tour season.
As the sun sets on another unforgettable tournament in the desert, the key takeaway is the sheer unpredictability and excitement of professional golf. The 2026 WM Phoenix Open will be remembered not just for the massive crowds, but for the heart-stopping drama that unfolded on the final day.
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