Henley’s Eagle Soars to Victory at the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational

Russell Henley etched his name into Arnold Palmer Invitational history in 2025, securing a thrilling one-stroke victory over Collin Morikawa at Bay Hill Golf Course in Orlando. The 35-year-old American navigated a challenging final round, showcasing resilience and clutch performance, ultimately ending a winless drought stretching over two and a half years. While two closing pars sealed the deal, it was Henley’s remarkable eagle on the par-5 16th hole that truly stole the show and became the defining moment of the tournament.

The victory marked Henley’s fifth career PGA Tour title and served as a powerful reminder of his capabilities on the course. The road back to the winner’s circle hadn’t been easy. Henley’s last triumph dated back to November 6, 2022, at the World Wide Technology Championship at El Camaleón Golf Course at Mayakoba in Riviera Maya, Mexico. That victory, a dominant performance characterized by blistering opening rounds of 63, saw him finish at 23-under par, four strokes ahead of Brian Harman. The intervening period had been marked by consistent play, but the elusive win had remained just out of reach.

The drama unfolded throughout the final round, with Henley and Morikawa engaged in a tight battle for the lead. Heading into Sunday, the leaderboard was congested with talented players vying for the prestigious title. Morikawa, known for his ball-striking prowess and unflappable demeanor, appeared to be in control for much of the day. However, golf, as Henley aptly put it, can be "mean."

Before the pivotal 16th hole, Henley found himself at even par for the day. He trailed Morikawa by three strokes at the turn, and even after a bogey on the 10th, Henley remained determined. Then came the turning point. Facing a tricky chip shot on the 16th, Henley displayed remarkable skill and composure, sinking the ball for an eagle. The crowd erupted, sensing the shift in momentum. The eagle propelled Henley into the lead – a lead he wouldn’t relinquish. He finished the day with a 2-under 70, while Morikawa carded a 72, allowing Henley to leapfrog him and claim the coveted trophy.

"That eagle really was the difference," Henley acknowledged after his victory. His back nine performance was a testament to his mental fortitude. He settled into a groove, carding two birdies alongside the stunning eagle in the final eight holes. The clutch display showcased his ability to perform under pressure and seize the opportunity when it presented itself.

In a display of sportsmanship, Henley acknowledged Morikawa’s strong play. "Hats off to Collin," Henley said. "He played great today, he played super-steady and sometimes golf is mean like that." The sentiment resonated with the unpredictable nature of the game, where even the most consistent players can face setbacks.

The victory was particularly sweet for Henley, as it ended a frustrating run. Since 2024, he had been tied with Sungjae Im for the most top-10 finishes without a win (10). He finally broke that streak with his triumph at Bay Hill, a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport. The win ended a drought of 854 days between victories.

The Arnold Palmer Invitational is not only a prestigious tournament but also a lucrative one. Henley’s first-place finish earned him a substantial $4 million payday. Morikawa, despite the disappointment of finishing second, still walked away with a significant $2.2 million. Corey Conners, who finished third, earned $1.4 million, while Michael Kim, in fourth place, received $1 million. They were the only other golfers to earn more than a million dollars over the weekend.

While Henley’s victory dominated headlines, the tournament also served as a backdrop for other notable performances and storylines. LIV GOLF player Sergio Garcia made a statement with a win in Hong Kong. This has definitely put his name in the hat to be selected for the Ryder Cup.

Henley’s victory at the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational was a culmination of talent, hard work, and unwavering determination. His clutch performance on the 16th hole will be forever remembered as the moment he seized control and secured his place in tournament history. The victory is a testament to his resilience and his ability to overcome adversity, marking a significant milestone in his career and solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with on the PGA Tour. The future looks bright for Henley as he builds on this momentum and sets his sights on further success in the world of professional golf.