The Valero Texas Open will quickly get underway (Image: Getty)
Masters fever is set to grip {the golfing} world however earlier than the motion begins at Augusta National the Valero Texas Open should first be performed. However, a number of of the PGA Tour’s largest names have opted to give the occasion a miss.
Rory McIlroy will head back to Georgia to defend his green jacket this month, however not earlier than the Tour makes its manner to San Antonio. Brian Harman triumphed at The Oaks Course in 2025 and this 12 months’s winner will pocket a considerable £1.4million. Yet McIlroy will sit out the Texas event as he fastidiously manages his schedule and World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler will even be absent. Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay are likewise lacking and one other standout participant who has already claimed victory this season has now been compelled to withdraw by way of harm.
Express Sport brings you all the latest from the world of golf, together with Tommy Fleetwood’s announcement and an replace on Tiger Woods’ Masters participation.
Collin Morikawa withdraws from Texas Open
American star Collin Morikawa bought off to a flying begin this 12 months, claiming victory on the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am earlier than backing that up with a fifth-place end on 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 again spasms. This troublesome harm continues to hamper Morikawa, who will now sit out the Texas Open.
He mentioned: “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 indicators new deal
Fleetwood’s prolonged partnership with Nike got here to an finish earlier this 12 months and his absence of an apparel deal continues to attract attention. However, forward of the Texas Open he has secured a brand new backer.
The Englishman has agreed a hat sponsorship cope with funding agency Blackstone and can sport their brand on his cap all through the rest of this season, together with at Augusta National. Fleetwood largely stays a free agent by way of attire, as the contract solely covers his headwear.
He informed 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.”
EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
Fleetwood has a brand new sponsor (Image: Getty)
Tiger Woods to miss the Masters
Elsewhere, Tiger Woods is not going to characteristic on the Masters as initially meant, following his determination to step away from golf after his automotive accident final week. Woods was charged with driving beneath the affect and pleaded not responsible.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley mentioned: “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 adopted Woods breaking his silence on social media. His assertion learn: “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 dedicated to taking the time wanted to return in a more healthy, stronger and extra centered place, each personally and professionally. I recognize your understanding and help, and ask for privateness for my household, family members and myself at the moment.”
