Viktor Hovland Withdraws Mid-Round at Travelers Championship with Neck Injury
Cromwell, Connecticut — June 22, 2025
Viktor Hovland’s strong run at the Travelers Championship came to an abrupt and unexpected halt on Sunday, as the Norwegian star withdrew early in the final round due to a neck injury. Hovland, playing alongside World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and Taylor Pendrith in one of the day’s featured groups, walked off the course just two holes into his round.
A Promising Week Cut Short
Hovland entered the final round at TPC River Highlands at six-under-par, following a bogey-free 63 on Saturday — one of the lowest rounds of the tournament. His momentum and position on the leaderboard made him a dark horse contender heading into Sunday.
However, something appeared off from the start. After making par on the 1st and bogey on the 2nd, Hovland teed off on the 3rd hole, but pulled his drive into the rough. Shortly after, he was seen shaking hands with Scheffler and Pendrith before informing tournament officials of his decision to withdraw.
Injury Details
The PGA Tour later confirmed that Hovland had withdrawn due to a neck injury. Speaking to reporters after leaving the course, Hovland said he had felt stiffness during his warm-up session. “I felt something pulling in my neck when I hit driver,” he explained. “I hoped it would loosen up, but by the time I got to the second hole, I could barely turn my head.”
This marks a rare mid-round withdrawal for Hovland, who has built a reputation on Tour as one of the game’s most consistent and tough competitors.
Impact and What’s Next
The withdrawal is disappointing not only for Hovland but also for fans who were hoping to see a thrilling Sunday charge. The 27-year-old had been enjoying a strong stretch of form, including a solo third-place finish at the U.S. Open and a win at the Valspar Championship earlier this year.
With The Open Championship just weeks away, attention now turns to Hovland’s recovery timeline. He has not given a specific date for his return but emphasized that he will focus on rehab and avoid rushing back too soon.
“I hate to pull out, especially when I feel like my game is there,” he said. “But health has to come first. I’ll work with my team to make sure I’m ready for the next big one.”
Scheffler and Pendrith Continue
Meanwhile, Scottie Scheffler and Taylor Pendrith continued their rounds without Hovland, maintaining a steady pace as the final day played out with a packed leaderboard and Tommy Fleetwood among the frontrunners.
Conclusion
Viktor Hovland’s sudden withdrawal was a disappointing twist in what had been shaping up to be another solid week for the rising star. Fans and fellow players will now be watching closely as he recovers and eyes a return at Royal Troon for The Open Championship next month.
