You don’t often hear coaches giving credit where credit is due, but Joe Mayo is a different story. As the former swing coach for Norwegian golfer Viktor Hovland, Mayo has had a bit of a rollercoaster ride with his star pupil. The two first parted ways in late 2023, shortly after Hovland’s thrilling win at the FedEx Cup, with Hovland citing a desire to explore new approaches to improve his game. But in a surprising twist, Mayo was brought back into the fold for the 2024 PGA Championship – only for the two to split again just a few months later, in December 2024. Despite the ups and downs, Mayo has been vocal about the immense talent Hovland possesses and reflected on their time together.

In a recent YouTube episode of No Laying Up Golf, Mayo joined Soly and KVV to dish on his time working with Viktor Hovland. And let me tell you, he had some pretty surprising things to say. “I owe Viktor Hovland a debt of gratitude… he took me places that I could have never taken myself,” Mayo admitted. He was quick to point out that Hovland’s insane talent was the real driving force behind their success – Mayo was just along for the ride. “Victor had it, he just didn’t know where it was… but he had it,” Mayo explained, shaking his head in awe of Hovland’s natural ability.

Mayo’s comments were a breath of fresh air, especially in a world where coaches often take credit for their athletes’s successes. “It’s the player, it’s the athlete, it always has been and it always will be,” Mayo said with a shrug. He even threw in a quote from the legendary coach Adolph Rupp: “You don’t win the Kentucky Derby riding a mule.” Mayo’s point was clear, no matter how great the coach you need talented athletes to win championships.

You might think Viktor Hovland has been silent on his split from coach Joe Mayo, but no. The PGA Tour player has broken his silence and here’s what he had to say.

What does Viktor Hovland really think about his split with coach Joe Mayo?

Viktor Hovland is gearing up for a fresh start in 2025, but it’s not all smooth sailing for the Norwegian golfer. After a frustrating season in 2024, Hovland has confirmed that he’s parted ways with coach Joe Mayo – again. The two had previously split in 2023, only to reunite during the 2024 season. But now, it seems they’ve had a disagreement about the way forward, and Hovland has decided to go it alone.

So, what’s behind the split? According to Hovland, he’s simply outgrown his need for a hands-on coach. “I feel that I’ve learned so much now and have so much expertise that I don’t need anyone to hold my hand anymore,” he explained. Instead, Hovland is working with a consultant coach, sending them videos for feedback and guidance. It’s a bold move, but Hovland is clearly confident in his abilities – and ready to take on 2025 on his own terms.

As for his 2025 performance so far, Hovland has shown glimpses of his former self. He finished T36 at The Sentry Kapalua Resort (Plantation Course) with a score of 277 (-15), earning him $97,750. However, he missed the cut at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic with a score of 148 (+4). While some fans believe Hovland shouldn’t have let go of Mayo, citing his impressive track record with the coach, Hovland still has the entire year to prove them wrong. So do you think the golfer can make a strong comeback? Let us know in the comment section below!