Bradley Clinches Dramatic Win as McIlroy Finishes Strong
Bradley wins Travelers Championship, McIlroy ties for 6th as Keegan Bradley pulled off a thrilling comeback to claim his second Travelers title, denying Tommy Fleetwood his maiden PGA Tour victory in the process. Bradley surged ahead after a pivotal two-shot swing on the 72nd hole, thrilling the home crowd and cementing his win in New England.
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Fleetwood’s Lead Slips Away Late
Tommy Fleetwood had entered the final round in a strong position, holding a three-shot lead at 16 under after a flawless Saturday 63. But early bogeys in the final round put pressure on his campaign to finally break his winless streak on the PGA Tour—an unwanted record dating back to 1983 for most top-10s without a win. Fleetwood regained control with birdies at holes 11 and 13, momentarily putting him ahead again.
Final Hole Drama
Heading to the 18th with a one-shot lead, Fleetwood needed to hold steady. But his approach to the green fell just short, giving Bradley an opening. Bradley took an aggressive shot straight at the pin and landed close. With Fleetwood’s birdie putt stopping just outside Bradley’s, the Englishman was forced to show his rival the line. Unfortunately for him, his par attempt veered right and missed. Bradley stepped up, sank his birdie from five feet, and sealed the victory in dramatic style. It was his second win at this event in three years and added to his 2011 PGA Championship title. Fleetwood, despite his seven DP World Tour wins, was again left empty-handed on American soil.
Fleetwood Reflects on Missed Opportunity
Disappointed and frustrated, Fleetwood said, “From where I was, I should at least be in a play-off. I didn’t hit many bad shots, just made a few poor decisions and didn’t clean them up.” He acknowledged the hurt of another near-miss but noted he would eventually reflect on the positives and learn from the experience.
McIlroy Makes a Late Charge
Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy produced an impressive final round of 65 to finish tied for sixth. Although he began the day nine shots behind the leader, McIlroy carded six birdies and a single bogey to climb the leaderboard, ending at 12 under, alongside world number one Scottie Scheffler.
Other Notable Moments
JJ Spaun, fresh off his U.S. Open win, shot the lowest round of the day—a blistering seven-under 63 to break into the top 15. However, not everyone finished strong. Viktor Hovland had to withdraw from the final round just three holes in due to a neck injury.
