Viktor Hovland in shock split before new PGA Tour season
Viktor Hovland has confirmed that he has split with Joe Mayo for the second time ahead of the new PGA Tour season.
Viktor Hovland has confirmed he has split with his long-time golf coach Joe Mayo for the second time, according to a report.
Hovland and the renowned swing instructor split in late 2023 after a remarkable season in which the European Ryder Cup star won three times and was crowned the FedEx Cup champion.
The Norwegian then endured a spell of misery on the course so brought him back in the spring of 2024.
Update:
Their work together appeared to immediately pay dividends, with Hovland contending at the PGA Championship at Valhalla a month removed from his Masters meltdown where he shot 71-81 at Augusta National to miss the cut by a country mile.
However, Hovland has now confirmed that he parted ways with Mayo approximately one month ago.
He made the revelation to Norwegian news outlet Norsk Golf.
Hovland told the publication he now feels he doesn't need anyone 'holding his hand anymore'.
Mayo and Hovland also disagreed on the path forward, he said.
He said: "We disagreed a bit about the way forward [and] what is best for me.
"I feel like I've learned so much and have so much expertise that I don't need anyone holding my hand anymore."
Hovland added: "It's always good to have someone who can watch what I'm doing, check out the steps I'm taking.
"So I [do] send some videos to another coach, but he's more of a consultant.
"I am the boss of my own swing."
Hovland also revealed that he is still a doubt to tee it up at The Sentry later this week.
The 27-year-old fractured his right toe on a bed frame.
He actually hurt it in his hotel room in Hawaii.
Hovland told the publication that, amusingly, he fell asleep fully clothed and when he woke up he stubbed his toe whilst undressing.
Doctors have told him it will take four to six weeks to heal fully.
He has hit golf balls on the range, he said, albeit without shoes.
Hovland will make a decision in the next few days but at present plans not to withdraw.
The field is also without Scottie Scheffler.
Scheffler, 28, cut his hand while preparing Christmas dinner.
Surgery was needed to remove shards of glass from the World No.1's right hand.
He plans to be back in action at The American Express in late January.
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