Jon Rahm Wins WM Phoenix Open in Dramatic Playoff Against Collin Morikawa

Jon Rahm captured his first PGA Tour victory of 2026 in spectacular fashion on Sunday, defeating Collin Morikawa on the second playoff hole at the WM Phoenix Open with a clutch 25-foot birdie putt that sent the raucous crowd at TPC Scottsdale's famous 16th hole into a frenzy. The victory marks Rahm's return to form after a challenging start to the season.

Both players finished regulation at 20-under par after Morikawa birdied the final hole to force the playoff. The American looked poised to claim his first victory since 2023 when he nearly holed his approach shot on the 72nd hole, with the ball stopping just inches from the cup for an easy birdie to tie Rahm at the top of the leaderboard.

"This feels incredible," Rahm said while holding the trophy. "The energy from the fans here is unlike anywhere else in golf, and to win in front of this crowd is something special. Collin pushed me to play my best golf, and that's what makes victories like this so satisfying."

The playoff began on the par-4 18th hole, where both players made routine pars after solid approaches to the green. Moving to the famous par-3 16th hole for the second playoff hole, the stadium-like atmosphere reached a crescendo as over 20,000 fans packed the grandstands surrounding the green.

Morikawa played first and hit his tee shot to 15 feet, drawing a massive cheer from the crowd. Rahm followed with a beautiful 8-iron that landed 25 feet from the pin, setting up the dramatic conclusion. After Morikawa's birdie attempt slid just past the hole, Rahm stepped up and calmly rolled in his putt for the victory.

"Jon made an incredible putt when it mattered most," Morikawa said graciously. "I'm disappointed not to win, but I played great golf this week and gave myself a chance. Sometimes you just have to tip your cap to a great shot like that."

The victory moves Rahm up to 8th in the FedEx Cup standings and provides crucial momentum as he prepares for the upcoming major championships. The former world No. 1 had struggled with consistency early in 2026 but showed signs of his vintage form throughout the week in Scottsdale.

Rahm's victory was particularly impressive given the quality of the field and the pressure-packed environment at TPC Scottsdale. He became just the third international player to win the Phoenix Open since 2010, joining Hideki Matsuyama and Adam Scott as recent champions.

The Spaniard's win also marked the first successful title defense in his career, as he also won this event in 2022. His ability to perform under pressure and feed off the crowd's energy has long been one of his greatest strengths, and it was on full display during the playoff finish.