2024 WM Phoenix Open leaderboard, scores: Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas contending with Round 2 in progress

Scheffler is eyeing on a three-peat, while Thomas is looking to connect on an overdue title in Scottsdale

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The only defense at TPC Scottsdale on Friday came in the form of muddy walks from hole to hole and heckles from over-served patrons. White shoes were wiped down as often as mid-irons and golf balls, but the added headache did nothing to slow players like Scottie Scheffler and Justin Thomas. Well-equipped to take on the Scottsdale faithful and whatever conditions the weekend presents, the two will try to chase down Andrew Novak and Nick Taylor, the duo that holds the lead at 12 under with Round 2 suspended due to darkness.

The day began with half the field completing its first round as Taylor ran wild. Signing for an 11-under 60, the Canadian added his name to the lengthy list of golfers who have recently flirted, and in some cases succeeded, with carding a sub-60 round. A factor at this tournament a season ago -- when he was in the final group alongside Scheffler and Jon Rahm -- Taylor's effort matched the course record. The early storyline soon became an afterthought as Novak's quality persisted with Scheffler and Thomas entering the clubhouse at 8 under following stellar second rounds.

After fighting his swing early, Scheffler found his groove with an unlikely birdie on his first par-4 14th. Clearly not dealing his best stuff, the world No. 1 did what world No. 1s should do on an off day: post a score. Signing for a 3-under 68, Scheffler experienced a quick turnaround and rolled this momentum into a bogey free 5-under 66 in Round 2. Still, the Texan believes there is more room for improvement.