The Valero Texas Open is a thrilling golf tournament that captivated audiences on Friday, April 2, 2026. With a 90-minute rain delay to kick things off, the stage was set for an exciting day of golf at TPC San Antonio's Oaks Course. Mark Hubbard took an early lead with a 7-under 65, but the real drama unfolded as the day progressed.
The projected cutline, as determined by datagolf, was a fascinating 47% at 1 under and 45% at 2 under. This meant that only a select few would make the cut, and the pressure was on. Among the contenders, Ryo Hisatsune stood out with six birdies and a bogey over his first nine holes, propelling him into the top 5. The afternoon wave saw Bud Cauley and Alex Noren make waves with their own impressive scores.
However, it was Robert MacIntyre who truly lit up the course. With a scorching 4-under start through eight holes, he became the first player to reach double digits under par. His stellar performance continued, and he closed with four birdies over his last five holes, finishing with a 64 and a remarkable 14-under score. This gave him a four-shot lead, leaving his competitors in awe.
Ludvig Aberg, another standout performer, tied for the lead with a brilliant 11-under score. His eagle on the par-4 sixth hole, achieved by holing out from the fairway, showcased his exceptional skills. The competition was fierce, but Aberg's performance was nothing short of spectacular.
Jordan Spieth, a familiar face in the golf world, also made a significant move. His long putt for birdie brought him to the cutline of 1 under, ensuring his place in the tournament. The first round, delayed by weather, concluded in the early morning, with 24 players left to complete their rounds.
The Valero Texas Open offered a substantial purse of $9.8 million, with the winner taking home a substantial $1.764 million. The top-two finishers would also secure seven-figure payouts, making it a highly coveted tournament. However, it was a bittersweet day for some, as notable players like Gary Woodland and Collin Morikawa withdrew due to injury and rest, respectively.
As the tournament progressed, the excitement continued to build. The golf channel and ESPN+ provided extensive coverage, ensuring fans could follow every stroke. The weather forecast remained favorable, setting the stage for another day of thrilling golf. The Valero Texas Open promised to be a memorable event, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats as the competition unfolded.
