Keegan Bradley was pushed all the way to the 18th green before securing his seventh PGA Tour victory by a single stroke on -12.https://t.co/miiIE2W7OJ
— Irish Golfer (@IrishGolferMag) August 26, 2024
Despite barely qualifying for the BMW Championship, Keegan Bradley defied expectations and claimed a thrilling victory on Sunday. His performance at Castle Pines was an impressive display of determination, as he skillfully overcame challenging obstacles and fierce rivals to earn his spot in the Tour Championship.
Starting the week as the last man in, Bradley finished strong with an even-par 72 and ended at a score of 12-under 276. He managed to beat three other challengers by just one stroke. It wasn’t only his talent that secured him this win but also his mental toughness, which was tested during the previous week when he required assistance to ensure the No.50 spot on FedExCup standings – making it all nerve-wracking for him!
Keegan Bradley Seals the Win with a Brilliant Shot on the 17th
During the tournament, Keegan Bradley left Adam Scott behind on Sunday’s back nine after executing a crucial shot on the par-5 17th hole. He utilized a 5-iron approach that landed him just 16 feet away from the pin and secured his victory with a birdie shortly after that. Despite narrowly missing an eagle putt, he maintained confidence heading into the final hole thanks to his two-shot lead provided by said birdie.
“It just shows why you’ve got to grind it out because you never know how fast it can switch,” Bradley said, reflecting on his journey. His father, Mark Bradley, a longtime club professional, was there to witness his son’s victory in person for the first time, adding an emotional layer to the moment.
Keegan Bradley’s win catapulted him from No. 50 to No. 4 in the FedExCup standings, guaranteeing his spot at the Tour Championship at East Lake. There, he will start four shots behind the leader, Scottie Scheffler, in the chase for the $25 million prize.
Keegan Bradley’s Journey: From Almost Missing Out to Climbing the FedExCup Ranks
Keegan Bradley’s recent triumph carries significance that extends beyond the FedExCup. He has now advanced to No. 10 in the Presidents Cup rankings, making him a viable contender for one of Jim Furyk’s six captain picks. By becoming the initial Ryder Cup coach since Davis Love III in 2014 to secure a PGA Tour event, Bradley has demonstrated his perseverance and skill on the golf course remains strong as ever before.
The final round wasn’t without drama, as Bradley faced strong challenges from Adam Scott, Sam Burns, and Ludvig Åberg. Scott, who had been in the hunt for the title, faltered with three bogeys on the back nine, ultimately finishing with a 72 and a share of second place. Burns, who carded a Sunday-best 65, and Åberg, who closed with a 71, also finished one shot back.
Despite his competitors’ efforts, Bradley’s composure under pressure was the difference-maker. The 17th hole proved pivotal, as Bradley’s brilliant approach shot set him apart from the field. His celebration on the 18th green, surrounded by thousands of cheering fans chanting “U-S-A! U-S-A!” was a moment of pure joy and validation for the 38-year-old New Englander.
Bradley clinching his seventh PGA Tour victory and second BMW Championship title, the first being at Aronimink in 2018, has secured him a spot amongst a distinguished crowd competing for the top prize of the season at East Lake.
Keegan Bradley’s transformation from almost missing the postseason to triumphing in a major event highlights golf’s capriciousness and resilience’s significance. While getting ready for the Tour Championship, Bradley possesses not only a trophy but also self-assurance that he can challenge top-notch players and emerge victorious.
