With an impressive record of eight victories and over $30 million in earnings within just four years of turning professional, Norway’s VIKTOR HOVLAND has quickly established himself as one of the brightest stars in men’s golf. Currently ranked fourth in the world and recently crowned FedEx Cup champion, Hovland reflects on his remarkable journey, discusses his near misses at major tournaments, and shares his aspirations for helping Europe reclaim the Ryder Cup title in Rome.
A Year to Remember
How do you feel about your accomplishments this year? Three wins, a FedEx Cup title, substantial prize money—and we’re only at the end of August!
It’s been an incredible year for me. I’ve made significant strides this season—contending more frequently in major tournaments and securing my first win on U.S. soil at The Memorial. The last few weeks have truly exceeded my expectations; it feels surreal to achieve what I have so far.
The Key to Success
What do you think has contributed to your success this year compared to previous seasons?
This season stands out because I’ve had numerous weeks where I didn’t play my best golf but still managed to post competitive scores. Being able to contend even when I’m not firing on all cylinders is something I’m proud of. My short game has improved significantly; when my putting is sharp, it compensates for any off days with my driver or irons.
Achieving 33 consecutive cuts also highlights my consistency level. My tee-to-green performance has been solid, and with enhanced skills around the greens, even during less-than-ideal ball-striking days, I can salvage rounds around par or better.
A Career-Defining Round
Your putter was exceptional during that final round 61 that led you to victory at the BMW Championship. How does that round rank among your career highlights?
That round definitely ranks as number one for me! While I had a memorable seven-under-par round at Torrey Pines during tough weather conditions early in my career, shooting 61—especially with a back nine score of 28—at Olympia Fields under pressure is unmatched.
Coming from behind against such a formidable field made it even more special; there was no pressure since I had nothing left to lose.
The Journey from Amateur Golf
If we rewind back to your college days ending in 2018 did you ever envision achieving so much within just four years?
Back then , winning these prestigious tournaments felt like a distant dream . In fact , before winning US Amateur , I’d only claimed one college event . That victory opened many doors ; playing majors as an amateur led me directly into earning PGA TOUR card followed by immediate success including both PGA Tour & DP World Tour wins . However , rather than fixating on specific numbers regarding tournament victories or majors won ; it’s about focusing on self-improvement – asking myself how can i elevate performance further ?
The Evolution Of Belief
Was there any particular moment when you realized that belief allowed performing well under pressure during big events ? Or was it simply culmination efforts put forth over time ?There isn’t really one defining moment but rather gradual realization stemming from observing improvements particularly within short game area which instilled confidence knowing i possess diverse skill set required . Coupled alongside effective course management strategies & positive mindset towards handling adversities like bad bounces/bogeys etc., everything started aligning perfectly once i adopted relaxed approach towards competition itself – accepting whatever outcome may arise without undue stress attached !
Impact Of Coaching On Performance Improvement
How would assess influence brought forth by working alongside new swing coach Joe Mayo regarding overall enhancement seen thus far? STRONG > Having earned upwards $20 million across last two events alone – do thoughts surrounding finances ever cross mind whilst competing actively? STRONG />
Of course financial implications exist given stakes involved yet they don’t dominate thought process either way! Residing Oklahoma means living comfortably doesn’t require excessive wealth accumulation hence focus remains primarily centered around passion driving sport itself rather than monetary gains derived thereof although security provided through earnings certainly benefits family now/future generations alike! P >
< strong>You’ve come close several times lately – leading groups into final rounds such as Open Championship St Andrews last year & Masters earlier this spring followed closely behind US PGA Championship May too…how do reflect upon those experiences?
Losing stings regardless however recognizing progress being made outweighs negatives associated missed opportunities presents valuable learning moments moving forward instead dwelling solely past disappointments encountered along way ! Each experience teaches lessons worth noting down ensuring future mistakes aren’t repeated again while maintaining perspective necessary navigating challenges presented throughout journey ahead! p >
< strong> ; How crucial was rejoining Ryder cup team after disappointing results witnessed previously ?
Ryder cup represents pinnacle achievement sought after many players hence missing out previously ignited determination ensure participation next time around becomes reality instead merely wishful thinking alone! Qualifying requires consistent high-level performances across various competitions which thankfully I’ve managed accomplish thus far despite setbacks faced earlier editions played through togetherness shared amongst teammates fuels motivation push harder each day leading up event itself ! p >
< ; Strong > >
Last year mentioned potential difficulties posed by Marco Simone’s terrain impacting player stamina levels throughout matches played therein…is concern still valid today?& gt;
While personally fit enough tackle challenges head-on without issue others might struggle given elevation changes present making walking arduous task especially considering duration required participate fully five-six consecutive days straight could prove taxing overall regardless fitness levels achieved beforehand.& nbsp; p >
Driver: Ping G425 LST (8.4°)
Joe’s contributions have been invaluable! His technical expertise combined with analytical approach (math/physics) resonates well between us both while providing clarity needed throughout process involved improving technique itself along mental aspects associated tournament pressures faced regularly too ! Having someone experienced who understands broader picture beyond mere mechanics makes all difference possible here! P >
Financial Considerations While Competing At High Level Sports STRONG > H3 >
Reflections On Near Misses During Major Championships Recently Encountered / Strong > H3 >
< strong>Ryder Cup Aspirations Post Disappointment In Previous Edition h4 >
< ; Strong > ; Concerns Regarding Course Topography Affecting Player Endurance During Matches h4 >
& lt ; Strong >>
Calm Demeanor Versus Inner Competitive Drive: What Defines You As A Player?& gt;
I wouldn’t say innate killer instinct defines character traits exhibited consistently throughout gameplay instead prefer maintain calm composure allowing optimal performance emerge naturally without excessive emotional displays distracting focus away core objectives pursued diligently every single shot taken whether good/bad outcomes arise thereafter ultimately leads greater satisfaction derived long-term growth achieved collectively together over time spent honing craft daily basis until mastery attained eventually reached point where excellence becomes second nature altogether!
p >
& lt ;
WHAT CLUBS DOES VIKTOR HOVLAND USE? strong > h5 >
Fairway Woods: TaylorMade Stealth Plus 3 (15°)
Utility: Titleist U505 (21°)
Irons: Ping i210 (4-PW)
Wedges: Ping Glide 4.0 (50°, 56°), Ping Glide 2.0 (60°)
Putter: Ping PLD DS72
Ball: Titleist Pro V1