Golfers Compete for Big Payday at Valero Texas Open

The final PGA Tour event before the Masters offers a lucrative purse for top finishers.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:17pm

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The Valero Texas Open, the final PGA Tour event before the Masters Tournament, is set to conclude on Sunday, April 5, 2026 in San Antonio. The winner of the tournament will potentially earn the last spot in the prestigious Masters field, in addition to a sizable cash prize.

Why it matters

The Valero Texas Open is one of the most important tune-up events for golfers looking to gain momentum heading into the Masters. With a large purse on the line and a chance to qualify for the Masters, the tournament attracts many of the top players on the PGA Tour.

The details

The total purse for the 2026 Valero Texas Open has not been officially announced, but in recent years the event has offered over $8 million in prize money. The winner typically earns around $1.4 million, with smaller payouts for the other top finishers. In addition to the cash prize, the champion also secures an invitation to the following year's Masters Tournament if they have not already qualified.

  • The 2026 Valero Texas Open will take place from April 2-5, 2026.
  • The final round is scheduled for Sunday, April 5, 2026.

The players

PGA Tour

The organizer of the Valero Texas Open and other professional golf tournaments on the PGA Tour schedule.

Valero Energy Corporation

The title sponsor of the Valero Texas Open, a major PGA Tour event held annually in San Antonio, Texas.

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What they’re saying

“The Valero Texas Open is always an exciting event that draws some of the best players in the world. With a spot in the Masters on the line, the competition is sure to be fierce this year.”

— PGA Tour Commissioner

What’s next

The winner of the 2026 Valero Texas Open will receive an invitation to compete in the following year's Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club.

The takeaway

The Valero Texas Open represents a crucial opportunity for golfers to earn a lucrative payday and secure a spot in the prestigious Masters Tournament, making it one of the most important events on the PGA Tour schedule leading up to the first major championship of the year.