Hisatsune Leads, Matsuyama Lurks: International 1-2 Punch at Scottsdale

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The "People's Open" is turning into an International Team showcase. After two rounds of the WM Phoenix Open, Ryo Hisatsune sits atop the leaderboard at 11-under par, with two-time champion Hideki Matsuyama breathing down his neck at 10-under.

Hisatsune's Meteoric Rise Continues

Just one week after his breakout T2 finish at Torrey Pines, Hisatsune has picked up exactly where he left off. His second-round 63 on Friday was a masterclass in precision iron play—the exact skill set that translates to match play success at the Presidents Cup.

The 24-year-old Japanese star is no longer a "prospect." He is a legitimate contender on the biggest stages, and his ability to handle the chaos of TPC Scottsdale's 16th hole (the stadium par-3) speaks volumes about his mental fortitude.

Matsuyama's Familiar Hunting Ground

Matsuyama knows how to win at TPC Scottsdale. His two previous victories here (2016, 2017) came on the strength of elite ball-striking, and Friday's surge—featuring six consecutive birdies—was a reminder of his dominance on this course.

Sitting one shot back heading into the weekend, Matsuyama is in the exact position he wants to be. His experience in high-pressure Sunday situations at this venue gives him a significant edge, and for the International Team, a third Phoenix Open title would be a massive confidence boost heading into the summer.

The Bigger Picture

With Hisatsune and Matsuyama occupying the top two spots, the International Team is making a statement: they are not just competitive—they are dominant. Both players are in career-best form, and their performances over the past two weeks (Hisatsune's T2 at Farmers, Matsuyama's T11) suggest this is sustainable, not a flash in the pan.

For Captain Mike Weir, this is the kind of depth he needs. If both players can maintain this level through the summer, the International Team will have two proven winners who can handle any pairing the Americans throw at them.

Sunday's Showdown

Hisatsune and Matsuyama will be paired together for Saturday's third round—a preview of the kind of partnership that could define Medinah. The question is not whether they can handle the pressure, but whether anyone can catch them.