Matt Fitzpatrick has lauded Viktor Hovland ahead of the Valspar Championship and suggested the attribute that he admires most about the Norwegian.
Hovland is certainly one of the most intriguing players on the PGA Tour. It does appear that few have the ability to compete with the 28-year-old when he is at the peak of his powers.
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However, the last few years have not been easy for Hovland. He went into the 2023 Ryder Cup as arguably the best player in the world, having won two playoff events the previous month.
Few would have foreseen that he would go into 2026 with just one more PGA Tour victory under his belt.
Matt Fitzpatrick heaps praise upon Viktor Hovland ahead of his Valspar Championship defence
Hovland is definitely entertaining to watch. He is often seen using some sort of training aid on the range, while he is never afraid to strongly criticise his own game.
Some would see Hovland’s self-criticism as counterproductive. It is difficult to see him having the belief to get across the line in the majors while he thinks that his game is so far away.
Photo by Ben Jared/PGA TOUR via Getty Images
But one person who believes that Hovland’s dedication to getting better is admirable is Matt Fitzpatrick, who was speaking as his Ryder Cup teammate prepares to defend his title at Innisbrook this week.
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“Yeah, his work ethic. His work ethic is fantastic. He’s always looking to improve. He’s always looking to find that perfection and play great golf,” he said, when asked what he admires most.
“Obviously Viktor is a fantastic player, and what he’s achieved in the game already at his age is incredible. I think that obviously comes from his work ethic.”
Where Viktor Hovland is thriving and struggling on the PGA Tour this season
There have been some encouraging signs for Hovland of late. He finished tied for 13th at both the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship.
He missed the cut at both events 12 months ago.
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His iron game is proving to be his main strength this season. Hovland is currently 16th on the PGA Tour for strokes gained approach. Meanwhile, he is also inside the top 30 around the greens.
However, he is 134th off the tee this year. That could definitely see him come unstuck on the Copperhead Course this week.
But whatever happens over the remainder of Hovland’s career, one accusation that will not be able to be levelled at him is that he left any stone unturned in his pursuit of perfection.
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