Golf world buzzes over brilliant shot from British Open contender

While he was already in a good spot, Viktor Hovland greatly improved his chances at the British Open on the 15th hole during Friday’s second round.

While Hovland’s drive finished in the fescue, he had a good lie for his approach shot into the green on the par-four. Hovland took full advantage. His approach shot landed on the green and after two big bounces rolled into the hole for an eagle.

Hovland’s eagle got the attention of viewers of the Open Championship, who praised the stellar shot from the 24-year-old.

https://twitter.com/user28256/status/1548020650496839682

Hovland followed up the eagle with pars on both 16 and 17 but made a birdie on 18 to finish the day at six-under par. For the tournament, he’s 10-under and only three shots back of 36-hole leader Cameron Smith heading into the weekend.

Hovland knows how to close tournaments out. While he’s only 24, Hovland has won three times on the PGA Tour and twice on the European Tour. Despite that, he’s never won a major. His best finish at a major came during the British Open in 2021, where he finished tied for 12th.

But heading into the final 36 holes at St. Andrews, Hovland is well within striking distance. And if his iron play is as dialed in as it was during the 15th hole on Friday, he’ll have a really good chance to hoist the Claret Jug on Sunday evening.

[The Open]