3 Major Takeaways as Viktor Hovland Breaks Silence on Jon Rahm’s $566 Million LIV Golf Move

Jon Rahm’s LIV Golf move has sparked a lot of reactions from fellow golfers, fans, and the media. Some have happened to criticize his move, whereas others have forwarded their support for his defection. But what does the Spaniard’s Ryder Cup teammate, Viktor Hovland, think of it?

The Norwegian star has been in the spotlight for quite a few days now, as rumors about his probable move to the other side were making their way. However, with his commitment to the upcoming season, he shut down those rumors. Recently, Hovland sat down for an episode with Espen Blaker at Eurosport Norway. He discussed various aspects of the game and broke his silence on Rahm’s move. So, here are three takeaways from Hovland’s candid interview:

1. Hovland supports Rahm’s move

While talking about his opinion on the defending Masters winner’s move, the 26-year-old extended his support. He said it wouldn’t be fair to criticize the person who has switched sides. He further talked about how the media usually portrays just one angle of news, whereas anything happening can have quite a few angles to it. “It would be a bit too silly to criticize the players for leaving. After all, you only hear one angle in the media, and there are quite a few different parts happening at the same time here,” said Hovland.

Hovland went on to convеy his undеrstanding of Rahm’s dеparturе, acknowlеdging thе substantial financial implications involvеd, stating, “ I totally understand why he left. That’s a lot, a lot of money”. The 6x PGAT winner didn’t hold away from criticizing the PGA Tour as well. He held the PGA Tour responsible for Rahm’s decision and said that the Tour’s mismanagеmеnt played a significant role in the move, “And at least when the management of the PGA tour has done such a bad job.”

2. Patrick Cantlay’s influence

The news of the $3 billion merger between the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and the European Tour broke the internet. The negotiations between PIF and the involved parties are still going on, and no firm decision has been made so far. However, it is claimed that Patrick Cantlay has built up a position of power on par with PGA Tour boss Jay Monahan. This means that he now manages many of the negotiations on behalf of the PGA Tour. 

As per Sports Illustrated, Cantlay will have formed an alliance with Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth, all three of whom sit on the PGA Tour’s Policy Board. Hovland defended his compatriot and mentioned that Cantlay has been portrayed in a negative light by the media. The golfer said that people don’t know what “fairer” things the player directors are trying to achieve behind the scenes and how they are trying to make “it the players’ tour again.” He said, “When you see that it comes out in a negative way for Cantlay… it is an indication that there are many behind the scenes who are not happy with what he is doing”.

3. Is Vicktor Hovland joining LIV Golf?

Hovland confirmed that he had no plans to join LIV Golf at the moment. He expressed his satisfaction with the position he is in right now. Stating the reason why LIV isn’t the right option for him, he said that he appreciates the competition that the PGA Tour offers him. He mentioned that he is not a big fan of LIV’s format and likes to have a cut format in tournaments.

Also read: “I’ll Take the Money”: Paige Spiranac Shuts Down Unfair Allegations About Jon Rahm With a Powerful Statement.

Expressing his thoughts about his move to the other side, the Norwegian star said, “If I had gone to LIV, I don’t think I would have become a better golfer.” When the interviewer asked if he would ever join the Saudi-funded league, he said, “No, I doubt that.”

His conversations have clearly shown that he is not satisfied with the PGA Tour’s management, and he is also not happy with the LIV Golf format either. However, Hovland has been a big target for LIVs over the last few months. There are speculations that negotiations have been ongoing with his team. What are your thoughts on Hovland’s remarks? Let us know in the comments below!

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