Andrew Novak’s Path to Masters Awaits After Strong Performance

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Andrew Novak, a 30-year-old PGA Tour professional, has an opportunity to qualify for the 2025 Masters as he heads into the final round of the Valero Texas Open. Needing a win to secure his spot in the prestigious tournament, Novak faced a daunting six-shot deficit against leader Brian Harman as he entered Saturday’s play.

Despite challenging conditions, including winds gusting up to 25 mph, Novak surged up the leaderboard, shooting a round of three-under par. He began the round one-over but made five birdies on the back nine, closing the gap to just three shots behind Harman, who finished at even par.

“It was tough,” Novak said after his round. “I played really well. I made sure not to put myself in any like disastrous spots. I obviously got lucky a few times when I did miss and made a lot of putts when I needed to.”

One highlight of his round came on the par-3 16th hole, where a fortunate ricochet off the grandstand allowed his errant tee shot to roll onto the green, setting him up for a five-foot birdie putt. “I didn’t expect it to kick back and go on the green, that was obviously ridiculous,” Novak remarked. “Not the best swing and sometimes golf rewards you.”

The challenging layout of TPC San Antonio presented difficulties for many competitors on Saturday. Among those struggling was Daniel Berger, who shot a front-nine 40, while Matt Wallace had a 41 and Sam Ryder finished with 77. Conversely, Tom Hoge enjoyed a solid day, moving up 19 spots with a bogey-free round, closing the gap to four shots behind Harman.

“Totally opposite wind than we’ve had the last two days made it tough,” Hoge commented. “Even the downwind holes were a challenge because the ball was bouncing out so much. I tried to battle and fight, knowing I had to make a lot of those six-, seven-foot par putts.”

Harman, who opened his round with bogeys on No. 2 and No. 4, steadied himself with nine consecutive pars, adding a birdie at 15. The 38-year-old is keenly aware of the competitors hot on his trail in the final round. “I certainly know that I can do it,” Harman said. “But the guys that are behind me, they’re hungry, man. A lot of guys that haven’t won, guys that have won a couple times, good players, so I’ll have to play really well tomorrow.”