The PGA Tour season is coming to an end with many of the top golfers, all swinging for a Tour Championship this weekend. Many have spent all season attempting to get a season tournament win under their belts, some still looking for their first all in all. Those like Scottie Scheffler who is the previous tournament winner, are coming off a season filled with wins. On the other hand, veterans like Russell Henley are fighting to put their names in the victory bag. Henley headed into round two of play with a small lead, but has since moved into a shared position for first place with Tommy Fleetwood. Henley managed to end round one with three straight birdies starting from hole 16, also managing to come away with an eagle at the sixth hole.
Small Room For Error
When playing in big time tournaments like such, there is very small room for any error. One shot taken off the fairways and into the bunker, can result in a drastic change to your leaderboard standing and confidence. Similar to that scene of Robert MacIntyre who could not hold his lead, and managed to be knocked off by Scheffler in the BMW Championship. So, Henley must take note and continue to put forth strong showings.
Showings similar to that of his round one play, totaling in with seven birdies on the day. While also shooting a round of 61, his confidence seemed to only gain as the round continued.
“I felt like with it being lift, clean and place and somewhat soft compared to last year when the greens were brand new, it was a little bit softer, so it was just a little bit more gettable,” Henley said.
Season Worth More Than Wins
This 2025 PGA Tour season has been one quite welcoming to Henley and company. Getting his sole season victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, his best finish since has been a tie for fifth at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Now in search of his second season victory and sixth career win, Henley must stay efficient. Already dropping his sole first place lead, there is just no room for mishap.
With a strong suit in Henley’s play being his iron and wedge game, his ability to be a strong putter has helped. Hitting on more than 207 feet of puts according to reports, his confidence seemed to rise after every putt.
“Probably the most I’ve ever made,” Henley said.
A victory here at the Tour Championship, has the potential to move Henley into a new company. A company that proves to be more difficult rather than historic, having to consistently battle with those like Scheffler and even Rory McIlroy. Grabbing two season victories would be the cherry on top, of an already successful season. Through 17 events played, Henley totals in with 15 cuts made, nine top ten finishes, and 11 top 25 finishes.
It will be easier said than done for Henley, but the task is to stay aggressive while being efficent.
Main Photo Credit: © Brett Davis-Imagn Images
