Japanese Stars Hisatsune and Matsuyama Command WM Phoenix Open Leaderboard

Japanese golf is experiencing a golden moment at the WM Phoenix Open, with Ryo Hisatsune and Hideki Matsuyama occupying the top two positions on the leaderboard after Friday's second round at TPC Scottsdale. Hisatsune produced a bogey-free masterclass to shoot 8-under 63 and reach 11-under par for the tournament, while two-time Phoenix Open champion Matsuyama sits just one stroke behind at 10-under following his own impressive 64 in the morning wave.

Hisatsune's round was highlighted by an extraordinary chip-in for birdie on the par-4 17th hole after driving his ball into the water. Rather than accepting a bogey or scrambling for par, the young Japanese star displayed remarkable composure to get up and down from a difficult position. His back-nine 30 included a sensational stretch from holes 13 through 17 played in 6-under par, tying the WM Phoenix Open record for the longest birdie or eagle streak. The performance represents Hisatsune's best position ever in a PGA Tour event as he chases his maiden tour victory.

Matsuyama's morning round featured its own moment of brilliance with six consecutive birdies that electrified the Arizona galleries. The veteran's run of red numbers demonstrated why he has won this tournament twice before and remains one of the most consistent performers on tour. Matsuyama's familiarity with TPC Scottsdale's Stadium Course and his proven ability to handle pressure in front of the raucous Phoenix crowds makes him a formidable threat heading into the weekend.

The two Japanese players will be paired together for Saturday's third round in what promises to be a fascinating encounter between mentor and admirer. Hisatsune has previously spoken about idolizing Matsuyama and modeling his game after the former Masters champion. Now they will battle head-to-head for positioning heading into Sunday's final round, with Hisatsune seeking his breakthrough win and Matsuyama pursuing a record-tying third Phoenix Open title.

Chasing the Japanese duo are Chris Gotterup and Pierceson Coody tied for third at 8-under par, while a group of five players including Matt Fitzpatrick, Si Woo Kim, and Akshay Bhatia sit at 7-under. World number one Scottie Scheffler recovered from an opening-round 73 to make the cut and remains within striking distance at 4-under, seven shots off the lead but still very much in contention given his proven ability to post low weekend scores.

Saturday's third round takes on added significance with the popular 'Greenout' taking place, where fans traditionally wear green instead of the usual array of colors. The Stadium Course's famous 16th hole, known for its raucous atmosphere and party-like environment, will provide the backdrop for what could be a defining moment in the tournament. With favorable weather conditions forecast and the course playing receptive to aggressive play, more low scores are expected as players jockey for position ahead of Sunday's finale.