Scottsdale (USA), Feb 8 (NationPress) Akshay Bhatia remains firmly in contention at the WM Phoenix Open golf championship after delivering another solid round, while Sahith Theegala is striving to secure a place in the PGA TOUR’s prestigious Signature Events with just one round remaining at TPC Scottsdale.

Bhatia, who faced challenges with two missed cuts in his previous outings, showcased his skills with a consecutive round of 4-under 67, placing him in a tie for sixth as he heads into Sunday. The young Indian-American displayed enhanced control and poise on a challenging course, keeping himself within reach of the leaders in a tightly contested leaderboard.

His round featured an explosive start with three birdies in the first five holes, complemented by additional birdies on the 15th and 17th. Although he faced setbacks with three dropped shots on the ninth, 11th, and 14th, his overall position sets him up perfectly for a strong final-round performance.

Meanwhile, Theegala recorded an even-par 70 in a fluctuating third round, landing him tied for 16th at 8-under. With two bogeys in his last three holes, he missed the opportunity to climb closer to the top 10, which could help him secure spots in the upcoming $20 million Signature Events at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am and The Genesis Invitational.

After a disappointing finish last season, where he ended up 146th in the 2025 FedExCup Fall standings, Theegala is revitalizing his campaign after a neck injury hindered him in 2025. Promising early-season performances with T31, T8, and T7 indicate a return to form, and despite an inconsistent week in Phoenix — with rounds of 70 and 70 sandwiching a brilliant 65 — he remains poised for a strong finish.

Reflecting on his comeback, Theegala noted he has adopted a more cautious approach to protect his health. “I’m overly cautious about staying healthy… being injured took away the joy I had while playing golf,” he shared, emphasizing the significance of consistency and fitness in achieving his season objectives.

At the forefront, Hideki Matsuyama holds a slim one-shot advantage after a 3-under 68, taking the lead when compatriot Ryo Hisatsune failed to save par on the 18th. Matsuyama, a two-time champion at TPC Scottsdale, enters the final round with both momentum and experience on his side. Nicolai Højgaard and Maverick McNealy surged with late birdie runs to register 65s, while Si Woo Kim contributed an eagle in a 66, keeping a cluster of players within striking distance at 12-under.

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, fresh off extending his cuts streak to 66, followed his second-round 65 with a 67 and is five shots off the lead in a crowded leaderboard. Another player of Indian origin, Sudarshan Yellamaraju, posted a 70 to remain further back.