“Hovland’s Swing Shake-Up: Broken Toe Not the Only thorn in Norwegian Star’s Side”
**Viktor Hovland to Play in PGA Tour Season Opener with Broken Toe**
Norwegian professional golfer Viktor Hovland has announced that he will still compete in the PGA Tour’s season-opening event in Kapalua, Hawaii, despite suffering a broken toe. The injury occurred in his hotel room when he kicked the corner of the bed while taking off his clothes, and he shared the X-ray photo on Instagram to confirm the diagnosis.
Hovland, who is ranked eighth in the Official World Golf Ranking and has six PGA Tour wins to his name, has not played since September due to an undisclosed injury. His return to the course will likely be a welcome relief for fans, though he will be doing so without the guidance of swing coach Joe Mayo. The two parted ways last month after previously working together for several months in-between their initial split after the 2023 season.
“I feel like I’ve learned so much now, I’ve got so much expertise, I don’t need anyone anymore,” Hovland said in an interview with Norsk Golf. “It’s always nice to have someone who can watch what I’m doing and see my steps. So, I sent some film to another coach, but he was more of a consultant. I’m the boss of my own swing.”
Hovland’s decision to continue playing with a broken toe has raised some eyebrows, but he remains confident in his ability to compete. “I’ve hit a few balls, albeit without shoes, and there’s no pressure on my right foot,” he said. “But my toe has lightened a lot, it’s a big difference compared to yesterday. So, we’ll see.” With a four-to-six week recovery period expected, Hovland will likely have to manage his playing schedule carefully to ensure he doesn’t further aggravate the injury.
In a related incident, world number one Scottie Scheffler had to undergo surgery after cutting his hand with a shard of glass while preparing Christmas dinner. The Sentinels will be without their star player, and Hovland’s decision to proceed with playing despite his injury only adds to the uncertainty surrounding the team’s prospects for the season.
**FAQs**
Q: What is the extent of Viktor Hovland’s injury?
A: Hovland has a broken right little toe, which is expected to take four to six weeks to heal.
Q: How did Hovland suffer the injury?
A: He kicked the corner of the bed in his hotel room while taking off his clothes.
Q: Is Hovland working with a new coach?
A: No, he is not currently working with a swing coach. He has parted ways with Joe Mayo and is instead sending film to a consultant for feedback.
Q: Will Hovland’s injury affect his playing schedule?
A: It’s likely that Hovland will have to manage his playing schedule carefully to avoid further aggravating the injury.
Q: What is the Sentinels’ current roster?
A: With Scottie Scheffler out due to surgery, Viktor Hovland will be one of the main players remaining on the roster.
**Conclusion**
Viktor Hovland’s decision to play in the PGA Tour season opener despite a broken toe is a testament to his determination and competitive spirit. While his injury may affect his performance, he remains a formidable opponent, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how he navigates this challenging situation. The Sentinels will need to rally behind Hovland to compensate for the loss of Scottie Scheffler, and their success will be contingent on his ability to manage his injury and deliver results on the course.
