Overview

• Sam Ryder surged to the top of the leaderboard at the Valero Texas Open with a bogey-free 9-under 63, highlighted by six birdies in his final seven holes.
• Ryder, who withdrew from the pro-am with neck pain, arrived at TPC San Antonio unsure if he could play but found his rhythm to deliver a career-best putting performance with just 21 putts.
• Keith Mitchell sits one stroke behind at 8-under 64, aided by an eagle on the par-5 eighth hole and a bogey-free round, marking another strong tournament start for the 11-year pro.
• Brian Harman is in third place at 6-under 66, while Jordan Spieth, a Texas native and former champion, is tied for fourth at 5-under 67 as he seeks to regain form ahead of the Masters.
• The Valero Texas Open, held at TPC San Antonio, serves as the final opportunity for players to qualify for the Masters, adding significant stakes to the tournament.