Scottie Scheffler Fires Course-Record 62 to Take Two-Shot Lead at WM Phoenix Open

Scottie Scheffler produced one of the finest rounds of his illustrious career on Thursday, carding a course-record 10-under-par 62 at TPC Scottsdale to seize a two-shot lead heading into the final round of the WM Phoenix Open. The world number one's bogey-free masterpiece included an eagle on the iconic 16th hole that sent the raucous crowd into a frenzy.

Scheffler started his round on the back nine and immediately set the tone with birdies on the 10th and 12th holes. His short game was particularly sharp, as he consistently placed his approach shots within comfortable putting distance. The turning point came at the par-4 16th, where Scheffler holed a 45-foot eagle putt that brought the stadium-style crowd to its feet in one of the loudest roars heard at the tournament in recent memory.

"That putt on 16 was incredible," Scheffler said after his round. "The energy from the crowd there is unlike anything else in golf. When you make a shot like that, it just carries you through the rest of the round." The eagle moved Scheffler to 8-under for his round, and he added two more birdies on the front nine to close out his record-setting performance.

The 62 broke the previous course record of 63, which had been shared by multiple players including Phil Mickelson and Hideki Matsuyama. Scheffler's round featured 10 birdies and an eagle, with his longest putt for birdie being just 15 feet. His precision with his irons was exceptional, hitting 16 of 18 greens in regulation and giving himself numerous scoring opportunities throughout the day.

Chasing Scheffler at 18-under are Tony Finau and Xander Schauffele, both of whom shot 67s to position themselves for a potential Sunday charge. Finau, who has been knocking on the door of victory in recent weeks, expressed confidence in his chances despite trailing the world number one. "Scottie played incredible golf today, but there's still one round left," Finau commented. "I've been putting well all week, and I feel good about my chances tomorrow."

The final round setup promises to be one of the most exciting finishes of the early PGA Tour season. Scheffler, who has won 12 times on tour including two major championships, enters Sunday as the favorite but knows that TPC Scottsdale's rowdy atmosphere can create unpredictable moments. The course has historically produced low scores, and several players remain within striking distance of the lead.

Weather conditions are expected to be ideal for Sunday's finale, with calm winds and temperatures in the mid-70s. The 16th hole, where Scheffler made his memorable eagle, will once again be the focal point as players attempt to navigate one of golf's most unique and challenging venues. With over $9 million in prize money on the line and crucial FedEx Cup points available, Sunday's final round promises to deliver the drama and excitement that has made the Phoenix Open one of the tour's most popular events.