The China Mail - Hovland beats Scheffler in playoff for PGA Travelers title

It was the eighth career PGA Tour triumph for the 28-year-old Norwegian, who sank a birdie putt from just outside nine feet at the 18th hole.

Scheffler then missed from just beyond two feet to seal Hovland's victory at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut.

"It has been stressful, but yeah, it's unbelievable, especially after Scottie hits it so close there," Hovland said.

"I knew I had to bring in my best to have a chance to beat him and he certainly brought it out of me. Couldn't be happier."

Scheffler, a 30-year-old American and four-time major winner, settled for his fourth runner-up result of the year.

"I played solid over the course of four days," Scheffler said. "A little bit disappointed with the finish but overall I think my game is in a good spot."

Hovland took the $3.6 million top prize from the $20 million PGA signature series tournament.

It was the eighth career PGA Tour title for Hovland and his first since last year's Valspar Championship. He won his only other playoff to capture the 2023 Memorial.

Scheffler sank a clutch par putt from just inside nine feet on the 18th hole Sunday to force the playoff after both completed 72 holes on 21-under par 259.

Scheffler fired a two-under 68 in the final round while Hovland shot 69 after a late-afternoon storm halted play for 83 minutes, leading to play being suspended for darkness before the playoff could begin.

The playoff began with both players finding the fairway.

A Scheffler 8-iron approach landed just outside two feet from the hole while Hovland dropped a 9-iron shot to just outside six feet.

Hovland's pressure birdie putt dropped in on the right side and Scheffler's putt lipped out off the left edge.

"I hit it on my line. I think it was just a little bit firm," said Scheffler. "It was one of those putts you had to make and I hit it firm. Was a bit disappointing.

"Just one of those weeks where I was close but just not quite good enough."

Hovland won for the first time with his mother Galina watching.

"I'm glad my mom got to be here and we get to share this moment together," Hovland said.

Hovland was cheered by Norwegian World Cup supporters, dressed in football attire and chanting his name.

"It helps when you've got people like this cheering you on as well," Hovland said. "I know how good I can get and I keep pushing myself and I want to get better."

Scheffler, who won the 2024 Travelers title in a playoff, took his season opener in the California desert but has not won since. This is his fourth runner-up finish this year, he also came second at the Masters, Heritage and Doral.

C.Mak--ThChM