Viktor Hovland Reflects on Coaching Change, Marathon Practice Sessions, and Playing Through Injury By Adam Schupak, Golfweek
Viktor Hovland, one of the brightest stars on the PGA Tour, is known for his cheerful demeanor and unrelenting work ethic. However, behind his recent success lies a story of change, sacrifice, and resilience. In a recent interview, Hovland opened up about his decision to switch coaches, his marathon practice sessions, and even playing golf while nursing a broken toe.
A Coaching Change That Paid Off
Hovland recently parted ways with his long-time coach and started working with Joe Mayo, a swing coach renowned for his analytical approach. While changing coaches can be a risky move for any player, Hovland believes it was a necessary step to take his game to the next level.
“I felt like I had reached a plateau in my game,” Hovland explained. “Joe has brought a fresh perspective, and we’ve been working on things that are already showing results.”
The Norwegian star credits Mayo with helping him refine his ball-striking and short-game technique, areas he’s been criticized for in the past. The changes have been evident in his recent performances, where he has looked sharper and more confident than ever.
Eight-Hour Range Sessions
Hovland’s dedication to improvement goes beyond the coaching switch. Known for his love of grinding on the range, Hovland revealed that he has spent up to eight hours a day practicing.
“I enjoy the process of figuring things out,” he said. “There’s something satisfying about seeing incremental improvements after putting in the work.”
These long practice sessions include everything from hitting thousands of balls to dialing in his short game and fine-tuning his putting stroke. While such intense practice might seem excessive to some, for Hovland, it’s just part of his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Playing Through the Pain
As if the challenges of the PGA Tour weren’t enough, Hovland recently competed while dealing with a broken toe. The injury, which occurred during a freak accident, didn’t deter him from playing.
“I wasn’t going to let it stop me,” he said with a smile. “It hurt, but I taped it up and got on with it.”
The injury didn’t seem to affect his performance much, as Hovland continued to post strong results. His ability to play through pain is a testament to his mental toughness and determination.
Looking Ahead
With his new coach, relentless practice, and sheer grit, Viktor Hovland is poised for an even brighter future. Fans and fellow players alike have taken note of his growth, and many believe he is on the verge of becoming one of golf’s most dominant players.
As he continues to refine his game, Hovland remains grounded and focused on his love for the sport. “At the end of the day, I just love playing golf,” he said. “Everything else is just part of the journey.”
Whether it’s breaking through with a major win or simply grinding on the range, Hovland’s work ethic and determination ensure he’ll remain a force to be reckoned with on the PGA Tour.
