‘Jack Nicklaus Won 18 Majors, but He Finished Second….’: Heartbroken Viktor Hovland Receives Wisdom From Rory McIlroy

The 2023 PGA Championship has concluded with Brooks Koepka taking home the Wanamaker Trophy. But he was not the only player to showcase some brilliant stroke play. One of the golfers who managed to attract the viewers’ attention with his competitive game was the young PGA Tour Star, Viktor Hovland.

The four rounds in Rochester witnessed greens being merciless to some of the golfers. The 25-year-old was not one among them. He was able to tame the course on all four days, just falling prey to it in the last few strokes. Yet, it was hard to overlook the vigor and competence of the Norwegian golfer. Amidst all the praises the young player received for his consistent form, the second major of the season ended in heartbreak for Viktor. Although one remark from Rory McIlroy would forever be remembered by Hovland due to the wisdom behind the words.

Rory McIlroy shares words of wisdom for Viktor Hovland

After the completion of the final round of the second major tournament, the press was eager to gather some answers. Among the players who finished in the top 10, Rory McIlroy was able to secure a position at T7 with Austrian golfer Josef “Sepp” Straka. Hence, it was obvious for the media to want to pick the brain of the Northern Irish golfer.

While most of the questions were regarding the monstrous roughs, his game, and his experience with Michael Block, one question in particular stuck out from the rest. It was with reference to the co-runner-up of the PGA Championship. Viktor Hovland managed to seal his berth in second place along with Scottie Scheffler for the second major tournament of the season.

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The interviewer asked McIlroy to comment on Viktor’s form. And provide his input on where did he see the young Norwegian taking his next step as a major contender. Also, to mention his stance regarding another close call for Hovland. To all of these questions, the World No.3 replied, “Yeah, I mean, he’s putting himself in position, right. Jack Nicklaus won 18 majors, but he finished second 19 times. So it’s all about putting yourself in position and giving yourself chances. The more chances you give yourself, the more probability one is going to fall your way.”

The applause and guidance for the fellow PGA Star did not end there. McIlroy also added, “If Viktor keeps doing the same things and working hard, I’ve seen him the last couple of nights. He’s been the last one here working on his game. If he keeps doing that sort of stuff, one will fall into his lap.”

The comparison to the Legend of Golf Jack Nicklaus by a professional like Rory is nothing short of an immense compliment.

Viktor Hovland encountered hard luck on the 16th hole

Even though luck is a subjective term, it sure does play a role in major events. Viktor Hovland would especially agree to that after the unfortunate delivery on the last day at the 16th hole. Just a shot behind the LIV golfer and with three holes left to play, Hovland was met with a penalty stroke.

The Norwegian golfer fell victim to the terrific bunkers in Rochester in the last round. He used a 9-iron club to hit the greens. It resulted in the ball being embedded in the grassy side of the bunker. The following penalty shot did not help Viktor’s case either, as it ended up in a double bogey.

Contrary to this, Brooks was able to maintain his lead and hit the 16th hole for a birdie. While Hovland suffered a fall to 6-under, the American golfer was able to win another title at 10-under par. However, the upsetting end did not take away Viktor’s confidence. The young golfer agreed that if he keeps striving in the right direction, one of the major titles is bound to come his way.

What do you think of Viktor’s form in the majors? Do you agree with Rory’s comparison of the young golfer with Jack Nicklaus? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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