Viktor Hovland Fires Back at English Golfers Ahead of Scottish Open

**Viktor Hovland** sparked fresh controversy on 3 July 2026 when, fresh from a birdie‑sealed victory over World No. 1 **Scottie Scheffler** at the Travelers Championship, he warned English golfers that his World Cup‑fuelled banter could “cut a little too deep” before the Scottish Open.

During a pre‑tournament press conference in St. Andrews, Hovland was asked about potential jabs at English players. He replied, “I feel it’s a sensitive subject for them, so it might cut a little too deep if I push too hard. I hope they lose and come crying on Sunday morning.” The remark tied his golf success to Norway’s surprise run to the FIFA World Cup quarter‑finals, where the team beat Brazil 2‑1 and now faces England.

Hovland’s win on 2 July came after a weather‑delayed round at TPC River Highlands. He birdied the 18th, finishing one stroke ahead of Scheffler, and celebrated with a Viking‑style rowing chant that fans had brought from the World Cup stands in Connecticut. The celebration linked his golf triumph to the national fervor surrounding Norway’s football exploits, giving his press‑room soundbite extra punch.

The Scottish Open field includes several Englishmen-Matt Fitzpatrick, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton and Aaron Rai-who will share the Renaissance Club’s tees with Hovland. By invoking England’s World Cup heartaches, he nudged a rivalry that extends beyond the fairways. The comment also echoes the broader sporting tension as Norway’s football team, making its first quarter‑final since 1998, prepares to meet England, a nation that has only lifted the World Cup once, in 1966.

Hovland will tee off on 5 July at the Scottish Open, aiming to build on his Travelers momentum. If his banter fuels a competitive fire, English rivals may respond with their own on‑course statements. Regardless, the Norwegian’s blend of golf skill and national pride adds a fresh storyline to a tournament that traditionally focuses on pure swing statistics.

Fans expect a lively locker‑room vibe, especially as the Viking rowing chant has already become a viral meme on social media. The blend of football fever and golf precision could draw extra eyes to the Scottish Open, boosting TV ratings and sponsor interest. Hovland’s willingness to stir the pot may also raise his profile ahead of the upcoming majors later in the season.