Viktor Hovland Withdraws from Travelers with Injury
Viktor Hovland withdrew from the Travelers Championship after playing two holes of the final round, citing neck discomfort. He had entered Sunday tied for 15th, 10 strokes behind leader Tommy Fleetwood.
Hovland warmed up on the range, felt great, but then hit a shot that made his neck crack, leaving him unable to move.
This is only the second time Hovland has withdrawn from a tournament in his seven-season PGA Tour career, with his only previous withdrawal coming at the 2021 US Open.
Hovland had a spectacular round during the Moving Day, carding seven bogey-free birdies for a score of 63, bringing his 54-hole score to 6-under.
The Norwegian joins Eric Cole, Si Woo Kim, and Jordan Spieth on the list of Travelers Championship withdrawals, with Cole withdrawing due to illness and Kim due to a back injury.
Hovland tried to find a way to stay in the tournament, but it ultimately wasn't possible, as he could hardly stand over the ball and move his neck.
The Travelers Championship has seen four players withdraw without completing the event, with Hovland's withdrawal being the most recent case.
Hovland's score of 63 on Moving Day was a highlight of the tournament, but his withdrawal due to injury has ended his chances of winning.
The tournament will continue without Hovland, with Tommy Fleetwood leading the pack, and the other players vying for the top spot.
Hovland's injury will be a setback for the Norwegian golfer, but he will look to recover and come back stronger in his next tournament.
The Travelers Championship has been prolific in top player withdrawals, with the demanding schedule and physical strain of the game taking its toll on the players.
Hovland's withdrawal is a reminder of the risks and challenges that golfers face, and the importance of prioritizing their health and well-being.
The PGA Tour will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to the players as needed, to ensure their safety and success on the course.