Report: Viktor Hovland Is LIV Golf’s ‘Next Target’
As LIV Golf League gears up for its 2025 season, speculation surrounds the potential recruitment of Ryder Cup star and World No.6, Viktor Hovland. Amidst LIV’s plans to expand its presence in the golfing world, Hovland emerges as a high-profile target, according to reports from The Guardian. Backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), LIV…
As LIV Golf League gears up for its 2025 season, speculation surrounds the potential recruitment of Ryder Cup star and World No.6, Viktor Hovland. Amidst LIV’s plans to expand its presence in the golfing world, Hovland emerges as a high-profile target, according to reports from The Guardian.
Backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), LIV Golf is actively seeking to bolster its circuit with additional events and players. With the expiration of contracts for several golfers who joined at the league’s inception, including Hovland, LIV aims to attract new talent to its roster.
Hovland’s recent criticisms of PGA Tour CEO Jay Monahan have stirred speculation about his potential move to LIV Golf. The Norwegian golfer has voiced dissatisfaction with the PGA Tour’s management, citing issues with the framework agreement and leadership decisions.
Despite his critiques, Hovland has refuted claims of planning to leave the US-based tour, emphasizing his belief that such a move would not benefit his career. He values aspects of the PGA Tour, such as the traditional format with a cut, which he believes sharpens his game.
However, should Hovland reconsider his stance, it could pose challenges for the European Tour, particularly regarding Ryder Cup eligibility. Currently, only players with a DP World Tour membership can be considered for selection, a rule that could affect Hovland and other LIV Golf recruits.
The potential ineligibility of key players like Hovland could impact the integrity of the biennial Ryder Cup event. Calls for rule changes to accommodate LIV Golf’s European cohort have been made, raising questions about the European Tour’s stance and potential influence from external entities like LIV and the Saudi PIF.
As speculation continues to swirl around Hovland’s future and its implications for both LIV Golf and the European Tour, the golfing world watches closely to see how these developments unfold.