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Viktor Hovland Defends Ryder Cup Envelope Rule After MRI-Verified Withdrawal

Hovland says the long-standing Envelope Rule best preserves the event's spirit during injury withdrawals.

Overview

  • An MRI revealed a disc bulge in Hovland’s neck, and Team Europe’s medical staff supported his decision to pull out before Sunday singles at Bethpage Black.
  • His scratched match with Harris English was declared a halve under the captains’ Envelope Rule, with each side earning a half-point in Europe’s 15-13 win.
  • Hovland expressed regret that English lost the chance to compete and said the situation was upsetting for both players.
  • U.S. captain Keegan Bradley urged a rule change, while Hovland countered that alternatives could invite manipulation, including using an injured player as a sacrificial matchup.
  • After about 10 days of rest, Hovland has returned at the DP World India Championship and is managing his neck by avoiding drivers at Delhi Golf Club.