2023 WM Phoenix Open: Top 10 Power Rankings at TPC Scottsdale

Scottie Scheffler not only is at the WM Phoenix Open to defend his 2022 title, but he’s seeking his third straight top-10 at TPC Scottsdale.

After missing the cut in his tournament debut in 2020, Scheffler posted T-7th (67-65-66-70) in 2021 and fired 68-71-62-67 to reach 16-under and enter a playoff last year where he beat Patrick Cantlay on the third hole of a sudden-death playoff.

Scheffler started the day in third place and had work to do on the back nine finishing the last six holes with four birdies and two pars.

The former Texas Longhorn ranked second in the field last year in strokes gained putting (6.494) and fourth in SG off the tee (5.226). Scheffler led with 26 birdies.

The 26-year-old brings solid form into the week. He’s also well rested with two weeks off since his last result, a T-11th at The American Express. That was his fifth top-11 in a row dating back to November.

"“I feel like I’ve improved a lot since this point last year,” Scheffler was transcribed by ASAP Sports prior to Palm Springs. “I feel like I’ve added new things to my game and I’m continuing to improve at certain aspects that I’ve been working on. I’ve seen some results now, which is exciting. Definitely feel like I’ve improved.”"

He’s still yet to win since the Masters, but he did take runner-up twice since then at Colonial and the Hero World Challenge.

Last season, Scheffler ranked fourth on the PGA Tour in SG approach per round (.819) despite his unconventional swing. He was 58th or better in every SG category and is a chameleon on different course styles.

He was tops in greens in regulation (72.29%) and second in approach proximity from 175-200 yards (29’4”).