Hovland Reflects on Ryder Cup Injury: A 'Dark Cloud' Over Europe's Victory

Viktor Hovland has expressed that his injury during the Ryder Cup felt like a lingering shadow over Team Europe's win, while praising Luke Donald's decision to continue as captain in pursuit of a third title in 2027. Hovland was forced to withdraw from the Sunday Singles due to a neck injury that had been bothering him since summer. Initially, he received treatment during the Foursomes on Saturday before being replaced by Tyrrell Hatton in the Fourballs. As a result, the USA had to withdraw a player, with Harris English sitting out, and both teams receiving half a point. 'That was tough,' Hovland shared on the Sky Sports Golf podcast. 'The most important thing is that we won, and it's a team event, but I was really disappointed. It felt like a dark cloud over the incredible job done by Luke and the team, especially considering our performance on Thursday and Friday.' Europe secured a 15-13 win, their second under Donald's captaincy, who will remain in the role for their title defense at Adare Manor next year. Hovland welcomed the news, saying, 'He's done a phenomenal job, and we're all excited to give him a third victory at Adare Manor.'