The Valero Texas Open will soon get underway (Image: Getty) This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Masters fever is set to grip the golfing world but before the action begins at Augusta National the Valero Texas Open must first be played. However, several of the PGA Tour’s biggest names have opted to give the event a miss.
Rory McIlroy will head back to Georgia to defend his green jacket this month, but not before the Tour makes its way to San Antonio. Brian Harman triumphed at The Oaks Course in 2025 and this year’s winner will pocket a substantial £1.4million. Yet McIlroy will sit out the Texas event as he carefully manages his schedule and World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler will also be absent. Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay are likewise missing and another standout player who has already claimed victory this season has now been forced to withdraw through injury.
Express Sport brings you all the latest from the world of golf, including Tommy Fleetwood’s announcement and an update on Tiger Woods’ Masters participation.
Collin Morikawa withdraws from Texas Open
American star Collin Morikawa got off to a flying start this year, claiming victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am before backing that up with a fifth-place finish at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
However, he has not set foot on a course since pulling out of The Players Championship after just one hole owing to back spasms. This troublesome injury continues to hamper Morikawa, who will now sit out the Texas Open.
He said: “Took one practice swing, and I just knew it was gone. Like I just had the feeling before when it’s happened. And I just, I can’t swing through it. Trust me, I would play if I could. It’s just the worst thing in the world.”
Morikawa will miss the Texas Open (Image: Getty)
Tommy Fleetwood signs new deal
Fleetwood’s lengthy partnership with Nike came to an end earlier this year and his absence of an apparel deal continues to attract attention. However, ahead of the Texas Open he has secured a new backer.
The Englishman has agreed a hat sponsorship deal with investment firm Blackstone and will sport their logo on his cap throughout the remainder of this season, including at Augusta National. Fleetwood largely remains a free agent in terms of apparel, as the contract solely covers his headwear.
He told Golf Magazine: “I’m at that place in my life where any new partnership that comes up, there’s a bunch of things that go into it. Sort of have to have shared values. Being able to help each other either way. Like I guess people that I can learn lessons from and gain experience from, things like that, I think that’s always very, very important.”
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Fleetwood has a new sponsor (Image: Getty)
Tiger Woods to miss the Masters
Elsewhere, Tiger Woods will not feature at the Masters as originally intended, following his decision to step away from golf after his car accident last week. Woods was charged with driving under the influence and pleaded not guilty.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley said: “Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being. Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”
This followed Woods breaking his silence on social media. His statement read: “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in. I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritise my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
