Valero Texas Open Draws Golf Fans As PGA Tour Nears Masters

The Valero Texas Open is underway this week at TPC San Antonio, drawing attention as the final PGA Tour event before the Masters. Golf fans are tuning in to see top players fine-tune their games ahead of next week's major championship in Augusta.

Play began Thursday, April 3, and runs through Sunday, April 6, at the Oaks Course in San Antonio, Texas. The tournament features a $9.2 million purse, with defending champion Corey Conners among the favorites.

Interest spiked this week as searches for "Valero Texas Open" surged on Google Trends. The event serves as a last-chance qualifier for players seeking Masters invitations, adding drama to the competition.

Several notable players are using the tournament as preparation for Augusta National. Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth, and Max Homa headline the field, while others chase the winner's automatic Masters berth.

Local businesses in San Antonio report increased tourism as golf fans flock to the event. The tournament has donated over $200 million to charity since its 1922 inception, with Valero Energy Corporation as title sponsor since 2002.

Sunday's final round airs on NBC from 12-5 PM CT, with streaming available on Peacock and ESPN+. The winner will receive 500 FedEx Cup points and potentially the season's final Masters invitation.