Hovland sinks long putt for first PGA win

Viktor Hovland has claimed his maiden PGA Tour title with a long-range birdie putt on the 18th securing a one-shot victory at the Puerto Rico Open.

By Australian Associated Press

Norway's Viktor Hovland has rammed home a 25-foot birdie at the final hole to clinch his first victory on PGA Tour at the Puerto Rico Open.

In just his 17th start on tour, Hovland reacted with joy when his putt crashed into the back of the cup at considerable speed and dropped in at Coco Beach in Rio Grande on Sunday.

"It's excitement for sure. It's a special feeling," he said after overcoming a triple-bogey at the 11th hole to shoot two-under-par 70 in at-times driving rain.

Overnight leader Hovland finished at 20-under-par 268, one shot ahead of American veteran Josh Teater, who had missed a 15-foot birdie putt on the 18th to card a 69.

Best of the Australian contingent were Cameron Davis, who closed out his week with a 69, and Rhein Gibson (70) who finished in a share of 27th at 10-under.

Cameron Percy (69) was two shots further back tied for 44th while John Senden's 72 left him well off the pace at three-under.

Hovland joins an elite group of players who since 2014 posted their first tour victory at the age of 22, after Hideki Matsuyama, Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, Jon Rahm and Collin Morikawa.


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