Fast forward to the BMW Championship at Castle Pines Golf Club, where Keegan Bradley, now an accomplished golfer, clinched his seventh PGA TOUR title on Sunday with a final-round, even-par 72. This victory propelled him from 50th to 4th in the FedExCup standings, setting him up for the TOUR Championship.
"I'm in a bit of shock because just a week ago, I didn't think I'd be here," Bradley reflected. He made 14 pars, two birdies, and two bogeys to secure his win, transforming his 54-hole lead into a victory. "I played with a real sense of calm all week, which is not the norm for me."
Bradley's win wasn't just about steady play—it was also about delivering under pressure. His caddie, Scott Vail, pointed to a particular moment in the final round: Bradley's 5-iron shot into the par-5 17th hole. "The best shot I’ve ever seen," Vail declared. The ball landed 16 feet from the pin, setting up an easy birdie that gave Bradley a two-shot lead going into the final hole.
“That 5-iron was as pure of a golf shot as I've ever hit,” Bradley said, reflecting on the moment. The birdie provided a crucial cushion as Bradley navigated the last hole, where he three-putted for bogey but still emerged victorious.
All week, players struggled with the unique challenges of playing at altitude, but Bradley excelled. "We're really good at elevation change," Vail explained. Bradley's precise ball striking and their team's strategy paid off, eliminating many of the variables that can derail a round at such heights.
Bradley's journey in golf is deeply rooted in his experiences in the Mountain West. His father, Mark, who was present to witness his son's victory, moved back to Jackson Hole, where he continued his career as Director of Instruction at Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club. Keegan spent summers in Wyoming, honing his skills and winning local tournaments.
Despite facing challenges, including a six-year win drought due to the ban on anchored putting, Bradley's recent success highlights his resilience. "I always try to take a second to really enjoy it," he said on Sunday.
The victory at the BMW Championship didn't come easily. Playing partner Adam Scott was a serious contender, especially after an eagle on the par-5 opening hole. However, Scott faltered on the back nine, leaving Sam Burns as the biggest threat. Bradley's birdie on the 17th, following that memorable 5-iron shot, restored his two-shot lead and secured his win.
As Bradley looks ahead, he faces exciting prospects, including the possibility of being selected as a captain's pick for the upcoming Presidents Cup and the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black next year. "I still feel like I'm in the prime of my career," Bradley asserted.
Now heading to the TOUR Championship at East Lake, Bradley sits just four strokes behind the FedExCup leader, Scottie Scheffler. Whether walking or riding, Keegan Bradley’s journey in golf continues to evolve, with his sights set on even greater accomplishments.