Congrats to Victor Hovland for winning the Valspar Championship on Sunday at the challenging Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor, Fl.
Victor overcame a 3-shot deficit on the back nine to edge out c by one stroke, after Justin Thomas bogeyed two out of the last three holes 16 and 18 to finish-10. Edged out Thomas by one. So it’s hard, unpredictable and unforgiving.
Hovland on the other hand birdied 16 & 17 to secure the lead heading to 18. He was able to finish with a bogey on 18 to no detriment. Hovland who was once ranked fourth in the World Rankings, came to the Valspar ranked 19th.
In a little more than a year he’s been through (5) coaching changes. His last win was at the FedEx Cup in 2023. Not exactly a recipe for victory at this year’s Valspar Championship. But that’s the kind of game golf is, so it’s hard unpredictable and unforgiving, but at the same time, about as fair as it comes. Usually getting what you earn, along with good breaks and luck.
Although Justin Thomas finished solo 2nd, he still owned the tournament record for the best 2-day finish shooting 65,67 on the weekend. Other than getting bit by the “Snake Pit”, which consist of holes 16 thru 18. He had a finish that most would take in a heartbeat. With Augusta and The Masters just around the corner his game seems to be trending in the right direction. Hovland played the “Snake Pit” in -1, and Thomas played it in +2. The difference in the tournament for sure. Kudos to Victor Hovland on being the last man standing.
