Scheffler defends Phoenix Open title to reclaim World No.1

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler outdueled Canada's Nick Taylor down the back nine Sunday to repeat as PGA Phoenix Open champion and overtake Rory McIlroy for the world number one ranking.

It was the 26-year-old American's first title since capturing last year's Masters and returned him to the rankings summit he surrendered to Northern Ireland's McIlroy last October.

Scheffler fired a six-under-par 65 in Sunday's final round to complete 72 holes at TPC Scottsdale on 19-under 265 and defeat Taylor by two strokes for the $3.6 million top prize and his fifth career PGA title.