SCOTTSDALE — As the start of the WM Phoenix Open draws closer, the tournament is adding several past champions to the field at TPC Scottsdale, further strengthening the level of competition.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Former champs are stacking the field. Hideki Matsuyama, Nick Taylor, Rickie Fowler, Gary Woodland and Webb Simpson headline the latest wave of commits to “The People’s Open.” Booyah.
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— WM Phoenix Open (@WMPhoenixOpen) January 19, 2026
Tournament officials announced that several former WM Phoenix Open winners have committed to compete, including two-time champion Hideki Matsuyama, Nick Taylor, Webb Simpson, Rickie Fowler and Gary Woodland. “The People’s Open” continues to stack its field with elite talent, reinforcing its status as one of the PGA TOUR’s most anticipated stops.
Also already committed are World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and two-time champion Brooks Koepka, further elevating the tournament’s prestige and reputation for bringing together the world’s best players.
Feb 9, 2023; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Hideki Matsuyama reacts after his tee shot on the 12th during the first round of the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports
“When past winners return to TPC Scottsdale, it reinforces the strength of this field and the standard of competition our fans expect,” said Tournament Chairman Jason Eisenberg. “From the top of the world rankings to proven champions who know what it takes to win here, this group reflects the depth, history, and competitive excellence that define ‘The People’s Open.'”
Hosting big-name players and multiple champions in one event boosts the tournament’s visibility well beyond the desert. With higher stakes, players are also looking to build early momentum in the season, and a stacked field generates increased interest and engagement from fans and media alike.
Feb 9, 2025; Scottsdale, Arizona, USA; Nick Taylor of Canada points and yells after he hit his ball off of the tee at hole 11 during the final round of the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Aryanna Frank-Imagn Images
The WM Phoenix Open has long been known for blending elite golf with a unique fan experience, but its reputation extends far beyond Arizona. The return of champions enhances the tournament’s appeal not only for those attending in person but also for viewers watching from around the country.
The 2026 field signifies legitimate competition, fueled by strong fan interest and reaffirmed national relevance as one of the PGA TOUR’s most anticipated events. With champions once again chasing the title at TPC Scottsdale, the tournament’s storyline is set to deliver drama and excitement across the golf world and beyond.
Scottie Scheffler watches his shot during the Golf Channel Games at Trump National Golf Club on December 17, 2025, in Jupiter, Florida. © GREG LOVETT/PALM BEACH POST / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The WM Phoenix Open begins on Thursday, Feb. 5, and will run through Sunday, Feb. 8.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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