Russell Henry performed an incredible show in Bay Hill on Sunday, resulting in his fourth signature event of the season, the Arnold Palmer Invitational. It was far the biggest victory of his career.
Signing events come with many perks. The prize money is large, FedExcup points are large, and the attention received will be enlarged. Henry's victory in Florida has him as a town story, so Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley was on public records about it.
Bradley, who played well for himself at Bay Hill, was not embarrassed to suggest that Henry could be part of Beth Page's US team in September When he spoke about SiriusXM on Monday:
“I'm very proud of him. He'll be a good Ryder Cup teammate.”
To be clear, Bradley praised Henry primarily for his victory at Bayhill. He pointed out that he was pride in Henry and acknowledged how well he was received from other players.
If Henry continues this form for the rest of the season, Bradley doesn't have to make a decision. Russell's victory put him in the top six of the US Ryder Cup rankings. The top six automatically formed a team. Henry is currently fourth, chasing only after Scotty Schaufferer, Xander Schauffere and Morikawa's Colin.
Henry's victory is one thing, but the fact that he was able to stare at one of Morikawa's best players in the world made his thrilling victory even more impressive. He also proved he has what he needs to be an ideal Rider Cup player.
The ball is now on Russell Henry's court.
