WM PHOENIX OPEN NEWS INFO
Thursday marked the opening round of the 2026 WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, and from the first tee shot to the final groups coming in, the tournament’s signature energy was already fully alive. Fans poured through the gates early, galleries wrapped around every fairway, and “The People’s Open” wasted no time feeling like itself again.
Once play got underway, the Stadium Course played firm, fast, and ready for scoring — but not without a little bite. With just enough desert breeze to keep players honest, Round 1 turned into a day of big runs, momentum swings, and plenty of noise across the property.
Play was suspended due to darkness at 6:06 p.m. Players who did not finish will resume their rounds tomorrow morning.
GOTTERUP LEADS AFTER 2026 WM PHOENIX OPEN FIRST ROUND
Chris Gotterup leads the field after Thursday’s opening round, firing an 8-under 63 to take the early top spot. The round was fueled by a scorching back nine, where Gotterup posted a 30 with four birdies and an eagle to separate himself from the pack.
Englishman Matt Fitzpatrick sits close behind at 6-under after matching the TPC Scottsdale back-nine single-round scoring record with a 29. Fitzpatrick was even deeper before a tough finish — back-to-back bogeys on Nos. 8 and 9 proved to be the difference after Day 1.
Behind them, the leaderboard is already stacked, with four players tied for third at 5-under as the tournament heads into Friday with plenty still up for grabs.
And while the action inside the ropes was electric, the scenes outside them were just as memorable. From early-morning arrivals to fans soaking up the atmosphere around the course, Thursday reminded everyone that this isn’t just a tournament – it’s a full-scale Scottsdale spectacle.
One important note for those planning to beat the crowds the next two days – the WM Phoenix Open has a message for the Breakfast Club.
To the early risers and worm-getters.
To our favorite morning people – healthy, wealthy, and wise.
And, of course, to the esteemed members of the Breakfast Club…
We humbly ask you to gather at the Main Entrance for your annual meeting.
The Hayden Entrance will remain closed until 7:15 a.m. on both Friday and Saturday.
Round 1 is in the books, the leaderboard is taking shape, and the weekend energy is already building. Friday is next, and at the WM Phoenix Open, things only get louder from here.