Viktor Hovland, Nico Echavarria Tie for Lead at Valspar Championship

Viktor Hovland, Jacob Bridgeman, and Nico Echavarria are tied for the lead at the Valspar Championship, each at seven-under par after a tumultuous Saturday. Hovland, who has struggled with his swing since winning the FedEx Cup in 2023, shot a 69 and expressed the stress of being in contention while still working through his adjustments. Bridgeman, in his first time as a 36-hole leader, managed a one-under 70, while Echavarria's bogey-free 66 included birdies on all three par 3s on the back nine. Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth also remain in contention, four shots back, with Spieth showcasing his trademark flair on the course. Despite a rocky season with multiple coaching changes, Hovland remains optimistic about his game as he seeks to end a 19-month title drought. The competitive field at the Valspar leaves 23 players within four shots of the lead, setting up an exciting final round.