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Apr 3rd, 2023
Corey Conners claims his second Valero Texas Open
Canadian holds off rookie Sam Stevens to win by a shot
Words: GolfPunk Photography: Getty Images
Canada's Corey Conners claimed his second Valero Texas Open with a one-stroke victory over PGA Tour rookie Sam Stevens. It was the second time the Canadian had won the PGA Tour event in the last five years, having won the event in 2019.
Conners shot a bogey-free four-under-par 68 to finish on fifteen-under to edge out Stevens, who had two eagles in his closing 66 at TPC San Antonio.
"I was really solid all day. It was a battle. The conditions were not easy," said 31-year-old Conners.
"It was definitely a battle but a lot of fun. I can't believe I got my second win here."
Having started the final round one shot behind Patrick Rodgers Conners opened up a three-shot lead after he birdied the 15th. Stevens closed the gap with an eagle at the 17th, but missed the birdie putt at the last to tie the lead.
Connors in the group behind Stevens needed to par the par five 18th hole but made heavy weather of it. Missing the green with his second shot, Conners proceeded to chunk his chip onto the green; however, two putts were good enough for him to take the prize.
Overnight leader Rodgers saw a chance for his first Tour victory and first Masters spot slip through his fingers as he struggled to a closing one-over 73. The American finished on eleven-under-par alone in fifth place.
Matt Kuchar birdied the last three holes for a three-under 69 and a share of joint third on thirteen-under with Sam Ryder, who had a 66.
Conners shot a bogey-free four-under-par 68 to finish on fifteen-under to edge out Stevens, who had two eagles in his closing 66 at TPC San Antonio.
"I was really solid all day. It was a battle. The conditions were not easy," said 31-year-old Conners.
"It was definitely a battle but a lot of fun. I can't believe I got my second win here."
Having started the final round one shot behind Patrick Rodgers Conners opened up a three-shot lead after he birdied the 15th. Stevens closed the gap with an eagle at the 17th, but missed the birdie putt at the last to tie the lead.
Connors in the group behind Stevens needed to par the par five 18th hole but made heavy weather of it. Missing the green with his second shot, Conners proceeded to chunk his chip onto the green; however, two putts were good enough for him to take the prize.
Overnight leader Rodgers saw a chance for his first Tour victory and first Masters spot slip through his fingers as he struggled to a closing one-over 73. The American finished on eleven-under-par alone in fifth place.
Matt Kuchar birdied the last three holes for a three-under 69 and a share of joint third on thirteen-under with Sam Ryder, who had a 66.