Viktor Hovland, currently ranked 13th in the world, is looking forward to competing against renowned players Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed as they return to the PGA Tour. As he prepares for his season debut at the WM Phoenix Open, Hovland expressed his excitement about facing top talent. “Just for my personal standpoint, I would say I enjoy playing against those guys,” he commented. “They’re great players, and I want to compete against the greatest players out there. I think it just makes the products, the fields better.”
However, Hovland also acknowledged the complexities these returns create for the PGA Tour. He noted the shift in the Tour’s stance, stating, “You’ve said one thing for a long time, and now we’re changing things. What precedent are you setting then to future players?” This change has the potential to stir dissatisfaction among players who perceive it as inconsistent with the Tour’s established policies. Despite these concerns, Hovland remains focused on improving his own game rather than delving deeply into the Tour’s broader challenges.
Both Koepka and Reed joined LIV Golf, taking lucrative contracts in 2022, but their paths back to the PGA differ. Koepka returned through a special Returning Member Program designed for specific players while Reed is slated to return after a year-long suspension. Despite their return, both players face certain restrictions, including ineligibility for equity grants until 2030, with Koepka also needing to make a substantial charitable contribution.
Hovland, who has turned down LIV’s overtures in the past, stated that the recent developments concerning Koepka and Reed have not caused him to reconsider. “Not really,” he remarked, revealing a pragmatic approach to the situation.
During the week, Hovland has been experimenting with his equipment, notably carrying two drivers in his bag. After switching from the Ping G425 LST to the G440 LST, he has been focusing on improving his game. Recognizing a need for better performance, he recently requested a slightly altered version of the G440 K driver to suit his playing style. “Just trying to find something I can put in play, and that seemed to be a lot better,” he explained, showcasing his commitment to fine-tuning his game ahead of the tournament.
As Hovland gears up for the WM Phoenix Open, his determination to compete against the best and enhance his own skills reflects a positive outlook for both him and the tournament itself. The ongoing changes in the PGA Tour present both challenges and opportunities, illustrating the dynamic nature of professional golf.