Viktor Hovland Ends 19-Month Drought with Valspar Championship Victory
Hovland overcame swing struggles and low confidence to claim his seventh PGA Tour title, edging out Justin Thomas in a dramatic final round.
- Viktor Hovland secured his first PGA Tour win since August 2023 with a one-shot victory at the 2025 Valspar Championship at the Copperhead Course.
- Hovland's improved putting and precise timing on his downswing were key factors in his victory, despite ongoing challenges with his swing mechanics.
- Justin Thomas held a late three-shot lead but faltered with bogeys on the 16th and 18th holes, allowing Hovland to capitalize with birdies on 14, 16, and 17.
- The win marks Hovland's seventh PGA Tour title and moves him to 8th in the world rankings, but he remains cautious about his readiness for the upcoming Masters.
- Hovland credited recent work with swing coach Grant Waite and emphasized persistence and problem-solving as crucial to overcoming his struggles.