The golf landscape on the PGA Tour is experiencing a notable shift, with player Chris Gotterup now leading the money list, overtaking Scottie Scheffler. This development follows Gotterup's recent victory at the WM Phoenix Open, a win that propelled him to the forefront of tour earnings. The competition remains tight, as Scheffler, a consistent top performer, seeks to regain his previous standing.
Chris Gotterup has overtaken Scottie Scheffler for the PGA Tour money list lead following his victory at the WM Phoenix Open.

Recent Victories and Tour Standings
Chris Gotterup has achieved a significant milestone by winning the WM Phoenix Open. This victory marks his second win of the current season and his fourth PGA Tour title overall. He secured the win in a playoff against Hideki Matsuyama.
WM Phoenix Open Victory: Gotterup defeated Hideki Matsuyama in a playoff.
Season Wins: This is Gotterup's second win of the season.
Career Wins: This is Gotterup's fourth PGA Tour victory.
Earnings: Gotterup earned $1.728 million for his win at the WM Phoenix Open.
Scottie Scheffler, who was the money list leader prior to Gotterup's win, tied for third place at the WM Phoenix Open, finishing one shot out of the playoff. Ryan Gerard, who held the money list lead the previous week, did not participate in the event and dropped to third place.

Gotterup's Rise and Strategic Approach
Gotterup's recent success is attributed to a combination of strong play and a strategic mindset. The 26-year-old golfer, a native of New Jersey, has demonstrated a consistent surge in performance, with the WM Phoenix Open win following a string of strong finishes.
Recent Performance: Gotterup has achieved a victory and two third-place finishes in his last three starts.
Player Insight: Gotterup has spoken about emulating Scottie Scheffler's approach and confidence, suggesting a learning process from top-tier players.
Tournament Participation: Gotterup chose to skip the American Express tournament, which allows him to maintain a high winning percentage for the year.
His current world ranking is No. 5, and he has recorded 2 wins and 2 top-10 finishes in the 2026 season.

Scheffler's Season and Recovery
Scottie Scheffler's season has seen him secure one win so far. His recent performance at the WM Phoenix Open, where he tied for third, indicates his continued presence among the tour's top competitors.
2026 Season Wins: Scheffler has one victory this season.
WM Phoenix Open Performance: Tied for third place.
Previous Season Performance: Scheffler tied for ninth at Pebble Beach the previous year after recovering from a hand injury. The injury was sustained during a non-golf-related incident while making ravioli.
Analyzing Player Trajectories
The emergence of Chris Gotterup as a top contender, particularly his ascent to the money list lead, signifies a dynamic period on the PGA Tour.

Gotterup's Ascent: Since turning pro in 2022, Gotterup has rapidly achieved four PGA Tour wins, with two in the current season. His play at TPC Scottsdale has reaffirmed his ability to perform under pressure, particularly with his long iron shots.
Scheffler's Consistency: Scottie Scheffler, a consistent top performer, is seeking to reclaim his position. His game continues to be a benchmark for other players, with Gotterup himself noting Scheffler's habits.
Other Notable Players: Justin Rose is ranked No. 3 and has also secured a win this year. Patrick Reed has also entered the "Power 18" rankings, reflecting strong recent performances.
Expert Observations
The recent performances of Chris Gotterup have drawn attention from golf analysts, with many viewing his current form as indicative of a player reaching elite status.
"Gotterup is one of the longest hitters on tour, hit first, sending his drive down the right side of the fairway." - The Athletic
"His play at the Farmers Insurance Open showed his potential with his long irons, and his play at TPC Scottsdale reaffirmed that he is not afraid of the moment." - CBS Sports
Conclusion and Future Implications
Chris Gotterup's victory at the WM Phoenix Open has reshaped the PGA Tour money list, placing him at the top. This achievement underscores a significant period of success for Gotterup, marked by multiple wins and strong performances. Scottie Scheffler remains a formidable opponent, and the competition for the money list lead is expected to continue throughout the season. The upcoming schedule includes signature events at Pebble Beach and Riviera, which will likely provide further insights into the ongoing player dynamics.
Sources
Palm Beach Post: https://eu.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/pga/2026/02/09/chris-gotterup-pga-tour-money-list-wm-phoenix-open-scottie-scheffler/88580308007/
Golf Channel: https://www.golfchannel.com/pga-tour/news/chris-gotterup-scottie-scheffler-pebble-beach-golf-rankings
Golf Monthly: https://www.golfmonthly.com/news/wm-phoenix-open-prize-money-payout-2026
BetMGM: https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/pga-tour-tournament-prize-money-payout-list-bm10/
Newsweek: https://www.newsweek.com/sports/golf/chris-gotterup-wins-phoenix-open-playoff-takes-1-728m-11487389
PGA Tour: https://www.pgatour.com/player/59095/chris-gotterup
Essentially Sports: https://www.essentiallysports.com/golf-news-chris-gotterup-says-this-quiet-habit-is-why-scottie-scheffler-keeps-crushing-the-field/
The New York Times (The Athletic): https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7031974/2026/02/09/chris-gotterup-pga-tour-star-wm-phoenix-open/
The Dallas Morning News: https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/golf/2026/02/11/scottie-scheffler-chris-gotterup-pga-tour-pebble-beach/