Sam Ryder Leads Texas Open After Overcoming Injury Setback

Ryder's bogey-free 9-under 63 positions him atop the leaderboard, while Jordan Spieth's recovery gains momentum with a strong 5-under 67 performance.

Sam Ryder leads the Valero Texas Open after a career-best bogey-free first round of 9-under 63, despite withdrawing from the Pro-Am earlier in the week due to a neck and upper back strain.
Ryder relied on rest, physical therapy, and unconventional preparation, including watching Netflix, to recover and deliver his standout performance.
Jordan Spieth, continuing his recovery from a wrist injury and surgery in 2024, shot a 5-under 67 to tie for fourth, showcasing improved putting and approach play.
Spieth gained 3.224 strokes with his putter, ranking second in the field, and recorded six birdies to signal his return to competitive form ahead of the Masters.
Winning the tournament would mark Ryder's first PGA Tour victory and secure him a spot in the Masters, a career milestone he has yet to achieve.