Valero Texas Open 2026: Last Shot at Masters Glory Awaits in San Antonio
The Valero Texas Open returns to San Antonio from April 2 to April 5, 2026, marking the final chance for players to secure a spot at the Masters. Held on the Oak Course at TPC San Antonio, this year's tournament features a strong field and a record prize fund of $9.8 million. The winner will earn $1.8 million—and a place at Augusta if they haven't already qualified. The event serves as the last qualifying stop before the 2026 Masters. Any player in the top 50 of the Official World Golf Rankings after Sunday will also book their ticket to Augusta, provided they haven't already done so.
Tommy Fleetwood headlines the competition, joined by past champions and top contenders. Rickie Fowler, Tony Finau, Matt Wallace, Tom Kim, Billy Horschel, and Will Zalatoris are among the notable names teeing off. The Oak Course, a par 72 stretching to 7,438 yards, will test their skills over four days. Recent history at the tournament has been dramatic. In 2024, Akshay Bhatia claimed victory after a stunning collapse on the 72nd hole, where a five-shot lead turned into a quadruple-bogey nine. He regrouped the next day to defeat Denny McCarthy in a playoff, securing his second PGA Tour win. The 2023 title went to Brian Harman, who later won that year's Open Championship.
The 2026 Valero Texas Open offers more than just prize money. A win guarantees a Masters berth, while a top-50 ranking after the event could do the same. With a star-studded field and a challenging course, the tournament promises high stakes and intense competition.