Viktor Hovland Finds Putting Stroke at WM Phoenix Open

The Norwegian golfer credits a grip change for his improved performance on the greens.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Viktor Hovland is in contention at the WM Phoenix Open after carding an impressive 65 on Saturday, putting him just four shots off the lead. Hovland, who has struggled at TPC Scottsdale in the past, credits a recent adjustment to his putter grip for his strong performance on the greens this week.

Why it matters

Hovland's putting struggles have been a weakness in his game, so finding a solution could be a significant breakthrough that helps him contend more often on the PGA Tour. His ability to adapt his equipment and technique to improve a weakness is an example of the continuous improvement top golfers must make to compete at the highest level.

The details

Hovland led the field in strokes gained putting on Saturday, gaining nearly four strokes on the field. He attributed this to a grip change on his putter, saying he feels more stable over the ball and has better speed control. This marks the first time Hovland has posted a round under 70 at TPC Scottsdale, after missing the cut in his previous two appearances at this event.

  • Hovland opened the tournament with a 69 on Thursday.
  • Hovland carded a 65 on Saturday, his best round at TPC Scottsdale.

The players

Viktor Hovland

A 28-year-old Norwegian golfer who is currently tied for 11th place at the WM Phoenix Open.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, definitely made a lot of putts today. Made a grip change on my putter. Not how I hold it, but the actual grip itself. I feel way more stability over the ball and my speed control has been really good this week.”

— Viktor Hovland, Golfer (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

If Hovland can put together another strong round on Sunday, he will have a chance to earn his first career win at the WM Phoenix Open.

The takeaway

Hovland's ability to identify and address a weakness in his game, in this case his putting, demonstrates the kind of continuous improvement that top golfers must make to compete at the highest level. His breakthrough performance on the greens this week could be a significant turning point in his career.