Brian Harman Shines at Valero Texas Open, Reflects on Early Career Victory

SAN ANTONIO — Brian Harman captured attention during the opening round of the 2025 Valero Texas Open, reminiscing about his early career triumph at the 2007 Porter Cup, where he won by nine strokes against a competitive field. As he signed autographs at TPC San Antonio, Harman smiled widely, recalling, “I won 10 grand that day. That was a good day.”

On April 3, during his first round at The Oaks course, which measures 7,438 yards, Harman shot a remarkable 66, marking his best performance in 25 rounds at this venue. His strong start places him near the top of the leaderboard, crucial given the forecast for adverse weather. The winner of this year’s Valero Texas Open stands to earn a significant $1.7 million, plus a $10,000 bonus.

Reflecting on his performance, Harman said, “I just drove it good and made a few more putts than I’ve been making.” He acknowledged consistency as a challenge this season, having made cuts in seven of nine events but failing to piece together four solid rounds to compete for a title. His highest finish so far was a top-20 at the Genesis.

“It’s just consistency and execution. My good days have been good enough to win, and my bad days have been not great,” he explained. “You’ve got to find a way on those days, and that’s usually a strong part of my game is gritting it out, figuring out a way to get it done.”

Harman expressed his fondness for Texas, stating, “If I had to move anywhere, I’d move to Texas for sure.” As the Valero Texas Open unfolds this weekend, it serves as the final event before the Masters Tournament next week at Augusta, which 27 golfers participating are also competing at Valero.

Among those are notable names like Jordan Spieth, Ludvig Åberg, and defending champion Akshay Bhatia, who seeks to become the first golfer to achieve back-to-back titles at this tournament since Zach Johnson in 2008 and 2009. The tournament boasts a $9.5 million purse, with $1,710,000 and 500 FedExCup points awarded to the champion, adding to the competitive atmosphere.

TV coverage in the U.S. will include broadcasts on The Golf Channel and NBC, along with streaming options available via Peacock and ESPN Plus. In the UK, viewers can watch via Sky Sports, while Australian audiences can tune in through Fox Sports or Kayo Sports. Canadian fans will have access to TSN Plus.

The atmosphere in San Antonio is electric, enhanced by the Final Four basketball tournament happening concurrently. When asked if he would support the University of Georgia, his alma mater, if they compete, Harman quipped, “Don’t care, man. I hope they all lose.”

As the tournament progresses, Harman will strive to maintain momentum from his strong start and aim for another impactful performance in front of a passionate Texas crowd. The Valero Texas Open promises high-stakes action as players prepare not only for glory in this event but also for the challenges awaiting them at Augusta.