The 2025 Valero Texas Open is set to be an exciting prelude to the Masters, offering players one final opportunity to fine-tune their games or secure a coveted spot at Augusta National. Scheduled from April 3 to April 6, the tournament will take place at the Oaks Course at TPC San Antonio, a challenging venue that has hosted the event since 2010. With a rich history dating back to 1922, the Valero Texas Open is the PGA Tour’s third-oldest tournament and the longest-running event held in the same city.
Venue: TPC San Antonio – The Oaks Course
Designed by Greg Norman with input from Sergio Garcia, the Oaks Course is a 7,438-yard, par-72 layout that demands precision and strategy. Known for its visually intimidating design, the course features narrow fairways, significant elevation changes, and an abrasive surface that tests players’ tee-to-green skills. The 481-yard par-4 4th hole and the 454-yard par-4 1st hole are among the most challenging, while the 553-yard par-5 14th offers a scoring opportunity for those who can navigate its hazards effectively.
Tournament Format and Stakes
The Valero Texas Open features a 144-player field competing over four rounds of stroke play. The winner will earn 500 FedExCup points, a $1.71 million share of the $9.5 million purse, and, if not already qualified, a spot in the Masters. This high-stakes environment adds an extra layer of intensity to the competition.
Key Players to Watch
Ludvig Åberg: The Swedish star and 2025 Genesis Invitational winner enters as the betting favorite. Åberg, who finished second at last year’s Masters, is looking to add another title to his impressive season.
Akshay Bhatia: The defending champion, Bhatia claimed victory in a playoff last year and has been in excellent form, with three Top-10 finishes in his last four starts.
Jordan Spieth: The Texas native and 2021 Valero Texas Open champion is aiming to regain his winning touch. Spieth has four Top-10 finishes in eight starts at TPC San Antonio and will look to leverage his local knowledge.
Hideki Matsuyama: The 2021 Masters champion has been playing pain-free this season and is a strong contender, especially given his recent record-breaking performances.
Tommy Fleetwood: Known for his precision iron play, Fleetwood has been in consistent form, with six consecutive Top-25 finishes this season.
Notable Storylines
Masters Qualification: For players like Rickie Fowler, Daniel Berger, and others outside the top 50 in the world rankings, this tournament represents a last chance to secure a spot at Augusta.
Course Challenges: The Oaks Course’s demanding layout and typically windy conditions will test players’ mental and physical endurance.
Throwback to History: With over a century of tradition, the Valero Texas Open continues to be a cornerstone of the PGA Tour, blending modern competition with historical significance.
