Hovland defies major swing issues and self-doubt to claim Valspar Championship victory in dramatic fashion
Viktor Hovland nearly didn’t show up at the Valspar Championship. Struggling with his swing and lacking confidence in his game, he debated skipping the event entirely. But in a stunning twist, the 27-year-old Norwegian defied the odds to clinch a one-shot victory over Justin Thomas, marking his first PGA Tour title in 18 months.
His return to the winner’s circle comes after months of turmoil. The former FedExCup champion and Ryder Cup hero had endured a sharp decline in form, missing three consecutive cuts and failing to complete a 36-hole tournament for eight months. His struggles culminated in a brutal opening-round 80 at The Players Championship, prompting him to reunite with former coach Grant Waite in an attempt to salvage his swing.
Hovland admitted his game had been in such disarray that he only finalised his decision to compete at the Innisbrook Golf Resort at the last minute.
“I wasn’t sure if I was going to play or not. I got here Tuesday afternoon, played a late nine holes, and decided to give it a shot. I’m glad I did.”
His final-round 67 secured the title, but even as he hoisted the trophy, Hovland confessed that his swing remained a work in progress.
“It’s still the same swing. I hit a lot of disgusting shots, but they just happened to go where I looked.”
Despite the victory, his ball-striking inconsistencies have left him lagging behind his usual PGA Tour stats, raising concerns ahead of The Masters. He acknowledged that his swing mechanics still feel foreign, forcing him to improvise under pressure.
“The club is not in a great place for me coming down. I can’t rely on my old feels anymore. I had to change my release pattern just to make it work.”
Yet, even without his best game, Hovland found a way to win—something he considers his proudest achievement from the tournament.
“I showed up at one of the hardest courses of the year and still won. That means a lot.”
With The Masters looming, Hovland will need more than just good timing to challenge at Augusta. But if his latest triumph proves anything, it’s that he’s not done fighting yet.
