Keegan Bradley achieved a remarkable comeback to win the Travelers Championship in Cromwell, Connecticut, edging out Tommy Fleetwood and Russell Henley by a single stroke. This win, his second at the tournament held on July 2024, has reignited Bradley’s chances of securing a spot in the upcoming Ryder Cup team, a goal that has eluded him despite previous successes. Trailing by three shots on the back nine, Bradley’s clutch play, including a 36-foot putt on the 15th hole and a precise approach on the final hole, proved decisive against Fleetwood’s late lead.
Key Moments That Defined the Final Round
The final holes of the Travelers Championship delivered intense pressure, particularly between Bradley and Fleetwood. After Bradley’s birdie on the 15th hole narrowed the gap, Fleetwood remained one stroke ahead as players approached the 18th. However, Bradley’s accuracy on his 137-yard approach set up a critical birdie. In contrast, Fleetwood faltered with a costly three-putt, handing Bradley the tournament title in a dramatic finish. This victory came after Bradley had previously won the event two years earlier, then setting a tournament record of 23-under 257.
Ryder Cup Ambitions in Focus After Victory
Bradley’s win has shifted the Ryder Cup conversation as he now has leverage for selection on this year’s United States team, a role he fiercely desires. Despite missing out on a captain’s pick in 2022 under Marco Simone, Bradley is now hopeful that this recent success will alter his standing with the U.S. captain. Reflecting on his evolving mindset, Bradley expressed mixed feelings about prioritizing being the team captain over playing, yet underlined that winning a tournament remains a critical factor for his inclusion.
My whole life, every year I was out here, I wanted to play on the Ryder Cup team, and then this would be the first year where maybe I didn’t want to. I just wanted to be the captain and, of course, you know, this is what happens,
Bradley said after winning.
But we’ll see. I’m going to do whatever I think is best for the team. Whether that’s me on the team – this certainly changes a lot of things. I was never going to play on the team unless I had won a tournament, and so that’s changed, but we’ll see.
—Keegan Bradley, Professional Golfer
Upcoming PGA TOUR Event: Rocket Classic in Detroit
The PGA TOUR is set to continue its schedule with the Rocket Classic at Detroit Golf Club. This marks the seventh edition of the tournament, with Cam Davis entering as a two-time defending champion after close victories in 2021 and 2024. Last year, Davis secured a one-stroke win over a competitive field including Davis Thompson, Min Woo Lee, Askhay Bhatia, and Aaron Rai. The field also features notable past champions such as Rickie Fowler, Tony Finau, and Nate Lashley, alongside prominent major winners like Collin Morikawa, Matt Fitzpatrick, Hideki Matsuyama, and Gary Woodland.
Remembering Frederick W. Smith’s Impact on Golf
The recent passing of Frederick W. Smith, founder and executive chairman of FedEx, has been acknowledged as a significant loss for the golf community. Brian Rolapp, PGA TOUR CEO, highlighted Smith’s lasting influence on the sport after nearly four decades of partnership, praising his leadership and pioneering spirit that helped shape the PGA TOUR’s trajectory and legacy.
Frederick W. Smith was a trailblazer whose leadership at FedEx helped shape the PGA TOUR’s growth and legacy. His impact on golf, through nearly four decades of partnership, will be felt for generations to come.
—Brian Rolapp, PGA TOUR CEO
Elite Competition and Rankings Highlight Tour Progress
The Comcast Business TOUR TOP 10 continues to celebrate and reward the high level of play demonstrated during the FedExCup Regular Season, recognizing the most elite performers in professional golf. This competitive ranking will play a crucial role in shaping the FedExCup standings and determining the season’s standout competitors as the tour progresses toward the playoffs.
Implications of Bradley’s Win for the Ryder Cup Team Selection
Bradley’s recent performance places him seventh in the world rankings, strengthening his case for inclusion on the U.S. Ryder Cup team. His victory not only offers a personal redemption narrative after being overlooked two years ago but also places pressure on the selection process overseen by the team captain. With the Ryder Cup scheduled at Bethpage Black, competition among the top American and international players is intensifying, and Bradley’s dramatic Travelers Championship win ensures he remains a prominent contender heading into the event.