Hideki Matsuyama demonstrated his composure under pressure at the PGA Tour‘s WM Phoenix Open, maintaining his one-shot lead despite a heart-stopping moment near the water hazard with just two holes remaining.
The Japanese star found himself in a precarious position when his ball landed perilously close to the water, but managed to keep it dry in what could prove to be a tournament-defining moment. The dramatic scene unfolded on the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale, where even the smallest margins can determine victory or defeat.
Matsuyama’s ability to navigate such pressure situations has been a hallmark of his career, and this latest example came at the most crucial stage of one of golf’s most electrifying tournaments. The WM Phoenix Open, known for attracting the largest crowds of any golf tournament worldwide, provides a unique atmosphere that can either inspire or intimidate players.
Stadium Course Demands Precision
The Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish-designed Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale is renowned for its challenging water hazards and strategic design elements that demand precision from even the world’s best players. The 2014 renovations have enhanced these features, creating scenarios where every shot carries significant consequences.
While the course is most famous for its raucous 16th hole – known as “The Coliseum” – the water hazards throughout the layout continue to play a pivotal role in determining champions. Matsuyama’s close call serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in professional golf.
Final Stretch Drama
With two holes remaining and holding just a one-shot advantage, Matsuyama faces the kind of pressure that separates champions from contenders. His experience in high-stakes situations, including his 2021 Masters victory, should serve him well as he attempts to close out what would be another significant PGA Tour triumph.
The live broadcast on CBS captured the tension of the moment, highlighting the razor-thin margins that define professional golf at its highest level. As the tournament heads toward its climax, every shot becomes magnified in importance.
THIS close to the water … but it stays dry.
Hideki leads by one @WMPhoenixOpen with two to play!
📺 CBS pic.twitter.com/IsXGFYrhoj
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 8, 2026
This article was created with the help of AI and editorially reviewed. Report an issue