​CROMWELL, Conn. — Viktor Hovland surged into the final round of the Travelers Championship with a 6-under 64, converting a late spark on the 18th hole into a one-shot lead over Scottie Scheffler. Scheffler, who had led most of the day, stumbled at the last moment when his 25-foot birdie attempt from the fringe lipped out for a bogey, finishing at 67 and dropping into solo second after a day when he briefly led yet again. It marked the first time Scheffler had trailed all day, though Hovland’s late birdie kept him within striking distance of the world No. 1, who is seeking his first victory since the season’s start in the California desert.
Hovland sits at 20-under 190, heading into Sunday with Scheffler still close behind as the afternoon set to unfold. Patrick Cantlay and Akshay Bhatia were five shots back after carding 64 and 67, respectively. Scheffler acknowledged the possibility of more low scores on a course capable of producing big numbers, focusing on executing well in round four to determine his fate.
The crowd at TPC River Highlands rallied behind Scheffler, while Hovland enjoyed solid support from a Norwegian contingent traveling from Boston after a World Cup loss to France. In a moment of shared enthusiasm, Hovland joked about the “row” cheer he witnessed, noting it was a first-time experience for him to see it live in person. The Norwegian said, in lighthearted fashion, that Vikings’ energy is in their DNA and found the moment amusing given the World Cup context.
Hovland moved from two behind early, needing four holes to catch Scheffler, who briefly pulled ahead again with a two-foot putt on the 14th after a lead-in with a lob wedge to two feet on the 14th. The players traded pars and a pair of birdies, staying close as they approached the back nine’s late drama. On the 18th, Hovland finally flipped the edge to claim the advantage.
Even with the late shift, the pair still left the door open for a high-scoring finish Sunday on a course known for its potential for low rounds and dramatic endings. Hovland expressed that while he and Scheffler have separated themselves from the rest of the field, the possibility remains for others to post under-par scores on the closing holes, meaning both players must stay aggressive and consistent to close out the victory.