Russell Henley finished in a tie for second place at the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut, this past weekend. A self-reported penalty ultimately cost him a chance at the win.
Henley penalized himself for a seemingly inconsequential shot during his second round. At the time, he didn’t realize how significant the extra stroke would become.
The PGA Tour veteran started strong with a two-under par 68 on Day 1 of the tournament and followed it up with another two-under 68 on Friday. His only blemish on the front nine during Round 2 was a bogey on the par-three No. 8.
Henley’s first shot on No. 8 found the rough. As he prepared to hit his second shot, he noticed his ball had moved. Despite the fact that the movement didn’t help his position, he chose to take a penalty.
“When I took the club back, I saw the ball move a dimple to the right,” he recalled. “When it happened, it kind of shocked me a little bit, but I still hit the shot. As the ball rolled on the green, I thought, ‘Something just happened there.’”
“I knew the ball had moved. I just felt like it was the right thing to do… There was no intent, and I didn’t really benefit at all… but that’s part of the game.”
Entering Saturday’s third round at -4 for the weekend, Henley shot a nine-under 61 to move into contention. He finished the tournament at -14 after shooting one-under on Sunday, one shot behind leader Keegan Bradley.
The self-reported penalty ended up being the difference between second place and a potential playoff. While it may sting now, Henley earned the respect of many viewers.
“This shows the integrity and self-governance that’s central to golf,” one fan wrote. “This is why I love golf,” said another. “That honesty and integrity are at the heart of this great game.”
Unfortunately, Henley’s decision came at a potential $1.4 million expense. Keegan Bradley, the winner of the Travelers Championship, took home a $3.6 million payout, while Henley’s tie for second earned him $2.16 million. While still a substantial amount, Henley likely would have preferred the extra prize money.