Viktor Hovland has emerged as one of the brightest stars on the global golf stage, blazing a trail for Norway in a sport traditionally dominated by Americans and Europeans. At just 26 years old (as of May 2024), the Oslo-born golfer has achieved remarkable success in both amateur and professional circuits, amassing a net worth of $17 million. With major wins, record-setting performances, and a growing list of lucrative endorsements, Hovland is shaping up to be one of golf’s most marketable and consistent talents.
From Norway to the PGA Tour: A Historic Amateur Career
Hovland’s journey to golf stardom began with an impressive amateur career. He was already making headlines back home in Norway after winning the Norwegian Amateur Golf Championship in 2014. However, his international breakout came when he became the first Norwegian to win the U.S. Amateur Championship in 2018, a milestone that put him on the radar of golf fans and experts alike.
His U.S. Amateur victory earned him coveted invitations to golf’s biggest stages, including the 2019 Masters Tournament, where he finished as the low amateur in 32nd place, and the 2019 U.S. Open, where he tied for 12th. His U.S. Open score of 280 set a new record for the lowest 72-hole total by an amateur in tournament history, surpassing the legendary Jack Nicklaus’ record from 1960. Hovland’s impressive amateur accomplishments also made him the first player since Matt Kuchar in 1998 to win low amateur honors at both the Masters and U.S. Open in the same year.
Turning Pro and Making History
In 2019, Hovland officially turned professional, joining the Korn Ferry Tour, where he quickly made an impact by finishing runner-up at the Albertsons Boise Open, securing his PGA Tour card. From there, his professional career skyrocketed.
In 2020, Hovland made history by becoming the first Norwegian golfer to win on the PGA Tour with a victory at the Puerto Rico Open. He repeated the feat on the European stage by winning the 2021 BMW International Open, becoming the first Norwegian to win on the European Tour as well.
His early wins were followed by consecutive triumphs at the Hero World Challenge in both 2021 and 2022, and multiple PGA Tour victories. His steady rise positioned him as one of the most promising young golfers of his generation.
Career-Defining Year in 2023
The 2023 season proved to be Hovland’s most significant to date. In August, he set a course record by firing a stunning 61 in the final round of the BMW Championship at Olympia Fields Country Club. That win kicked off his FedEx Cup Playoffs run, which he capped off by winning the Tour Championship and securing the prestigious FedEx Cup.
Hovland outplayed fellow star Xander Schauffele by five strokes to clinch the Tour Championship with a score of 261 (-27). The victory came with an $18 million prize, marking the largest single payday of his career and a substantial contributor to his rising net worth. In total, Hovland earned $34.6 million in 2023, significantly boosting his financial standing.
Close Call at the Majors
While Hovland’s major championship win remains elusive, he has come close on several occasions. At the 2023 PGA Championship, he finished tied for second alongside Scottie Scheffler, narrowly losing to Brooks Koepka by two strokes. He also finished tied for seventh at the 2023 Masters Tournament before missing the cut during the 2024 season—a rare setback in an otherwise stellar run.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
As of May 2024, Viktor Hovland’s net worth is estimated at $17 million, according to reports. His total career earnings on the golf course alone stand at approximately $54.4 million, with the bulk of that stemming from his performance in the 2023 FedEx Cup Playoffs.
Although golfers do not earn fixed salaries, Hovland’s winnings from tournament prize money and endorsements place him among the highest-earning young golfers on the planet. His financial trajectory suggests that his net worth could climb even higher in the coming years, especially with more major titles and FedEx Cup appearances on the horizon.
Endorsement Deals and Sponsorships
Like many top-tier golfers, Hovland has secured partnerships with global brands that enhance both his marketability and income. His endorsement portfolio includes deals with:
- Cisco
- PING
- J.Lindeberg
- Rolex
While the exact value of these endorsement deals remains undisclosed, they are undoubtedly adding millions to his annual income. His blend of charisma, youth, and success has made him an appealing figure for brands aiming to tap into golf’s growing international market.
Life in Stillwater, Oklahoma
Interestingly, despite his global fame, Hovland has remained grounded, choosing to live in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where he previously attended Oklahoma State University. His home is located near Karsten Creek Golf Club, where he continues to practice with members of the Oklahoma State Cowboys golf team. While the exact details of his property are private, its proximity to the course reflects Hovland’s ongoing commitment to sharpening his game.
Team Success and Ryder Cup Impact
Hovland also played a crucial role in Team Europe’s victory at the 2023 Ryder Cup, held in Rome. He posted a 3-1-1 record and secured a notable singles match win against Collin Morikawa, contributing to Europe’s commanding 16.5 to 11.5 triumph over the United States.
