The 2026 WM Phoenix Open is heating up, and all eyes are on the cut line—that make-or-break threshold that separates the weekend contenders from the early exits. But here’s where it gets controversial: Could the world’s No. 1 golfer, Scottie Scheffler, actually miss the cut? After dominating with two major wins last year and a strong 2026 PGA Tour debut at The American Express, Scheffler stumbled in his first round at TPC Scottsdale, finishing 2 over par. While he’s a back-to-back Phoenix Open champion from 2022 and 2023, his only miss here was in his 2020 debut. So, will history repeat itself, or will he bounce back? And this is the part most people miss—the cut line isn’t just about survival; it’s a dramatic pivot point that can reshape the tournament’s narrative.
As of 4 p.m. ET, the projected cut line sits at 1 under par, a slight shift from the even par that held steady through much of Friday’s play. This means 65 of the 123 golfers are guaranteed a spot for the weekend, though ties and players within 10 strokes of the lead could expand that number. Last year, 77 players made the cut at 2 under par, so this year’s tighter margin adds an extra layer of tension.
Here’s the bold part: Brooks Koepka, fresh off a rocky return from LIV Golf, is teetering on the edge again after a lackluster start. Can he pull off another comeback like he did at the Farmers Insurance Open? And what about Corey Conners, Collin Morikawa, and Xander Schauffele, who all need a strong finish to secure their spots? It’s a high-stakes game of golf chess, where every stroke counts.
Let’s dive into the leaderboard. Players like Rickie Fowler (-3) and Sahith Theegala (-3) are comfortably positioned, but others like Jordan Spieth (E) and, surprisingly, Scheffler (+2) are on the bubble. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Is Scheffler’s early struggle a sign of vulnerability, or is he simply setting the stage for a dramatic comeback? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think he’ll make the cut, or is this the year the world’s best gets left behind?
For those tuning in, here’s how to catch all the action: The tournament airs on Golf Channel and CBS, with streaming available on the ESPN app and Fubo (free trial). Round 2 kicks off at 3 p.m. on Golf Channel, while Rounds 3 and 4 start at 1 p.m. on Golf Channel before switching to CBS at 3 p.m. on Feb. 7-8. Don’t miss the featured groups and hole streaming on PGA Tour Live via the ESPN app—it’s where the real drama unfolds.
So, who’s safe, and who’s sweating? Here’s a snapshot of the players to watch:
Players Likely to Make the Cut:
- Rickie Fowler: -3 (F)
- Sahith Theegala: -3 (5)
- Cam Davis: -2 (F)
- Collin Morikawa: -1 (F)
- Xander Schauffele: -1 (F*)
On the Bubble:
- Jordan Spieth: E (4)
- Brooks Koepka: +2 (F*)
- Scottie Scheffler: +2 (4)
Long Shots:
- Haotong Li: +3 (F*)
- Wyndham Clark: +3 (5)
- Austin Smotherman: +4 (F)
The Phoenix Open never fails to deliver drama, and this year is no exception. Will the stars align for Scheffler, or will an underdog steal the spotlight? Tune in, and let’s debate—who’s your pick to take it all?
