VIK'S WISE TO IT NOW

Return to US holds no fear

- By Craig Swan

VIKTOR HOVLAND has gone from timid to tiger at the Ryder Cup.

And the Norwegian has vowed to take the lessons from his chastening rookie experience on US soil and roar again at Bethpage in New York.

Hovland was a guaranteed pick for Europe as captain Luke Donald unveiled his selections for the end-of-month duel.

However, four years ago at Whistling Straits, the Scandinavian endured a tough introduction to the high-octane event as part of a visiting side blown away by both the home fans and Steve Stricker’s team, who romped to a hefty triumph.

Hovland managed just a half-point during the Wisconsin walloping but, with that experience under his belt, he fired back spectacularly in Rome in 2023 and was a hero as the Europeans stormed to success.