Russell Henley, the triumphant golfer at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, tipped his hat to fellow golfers Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele during his victory address. The remarkable two-under-par final round propelled Henley ahead of the 54-hole frontrunner, Collin Morikawa, securing him the coveted trophy.
While Henley didn’t stun audiences with a Bay Hill dominance akin to Keegan Bradley’s minus eight on Sunday, his strategic play saw him comfortably cross the finish line. Following his victory, Henley acknowledged his Presidents Cup colleagues, Scheffler and Schauffele, in the press conference, applauding their instrumental role in his triumph.
The gesture was a break from tradition, as champion golfers typically reserve their gratitude for their caddies, trainers, and loved ones, rarely acknowledging their rivals. However, Henley veered away from this norm, expressing his appreciation for his 2024 Presidents Cup teammates, including Scheffler and Schauffele, following his Arnold Palmer Invitational win.
The camaraderie he experienced being part of the team with Morikawa, Scheffler, Schauffele, and Patrick Cantlay was profound, Henley confessed. He said, “I’ve observed their games closely, even gone to the extent of watching YouTube videos to understand different aspects of their play and learn from their strategies. They’ve been beating me, but being part of their team has boosted my confidence.”
He revealed that he has sought advice from his teammates, who have generously shared their insights, fostering a sense of family within the team. The lessons he gleaned from Schauffler and Schauffele have undoubtedly played a role in his unflappable performance leading to his latest victory.
Ending 2024 at the 17th position in the Official World Golf Ranking, Henley had already ascended to the 14th spot before the Arnold Palmer Invitational. His win at Bay Hill, while not unexpected, has likely propelled him to a higher echelon in the golfing world.
Currently ranked seventh worldwide, Henley surpasses Wyndham Clark and Justin Thomas, cementing his status as one of the premier players globally. Despite his reserved personality potentially limiting his popularity on the PGA Tour, his skillful performance ensures his mention in discussions of Ryder Cup certainties and major contenders.
