Viktor Hovland described his Ryder Cup withdrawal as a 'dark cloud' over Team Europe's 15-13 victory at Bethpage Black, where a neck injury prevented him from competing in Sunday Singles. The Norwegian star had been troubled by the injury since summer and received treatment during Saturday's Foursomes before being replaced by Tyrrell Hatton. His absence meant the USA also had to withdraw a player under the envelope rule, with Harris English sitting out.

Hovland expressed disappointment about the situation, saying it 'obfuscated' what he called a 'flawless exhibition of golf' by Europe on home soil. The 2022 Masters champion felt his inability to play left a shadow over Luke Donald's successful captaincy and the team's dominant performance. Europe's win marked their first away victory since 2012 and second consecutive triumph under Donald's leadership.

Donald confirmed he'll remain captain for a third consecutive Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in 2027, with Hovland and teammates enthusiastically supporting the decision. The Norwegian praised Donald's 'phenomenal' leadership across two iterations, calling his captaincy 'perfect' and expressing excitement about pursuing a third title. Hovland's injury saga began during the Foursomes when he initially received treatment before sitting out Fourballs, ultimately forcing his withdrawal from the decisive Singles session.