Ainslie Linn

Written by Ainslie Linn

Published: 29 Jul 2025

40-facts-about-russell-henley
Source: Usatoday.com

Russell Henley is a name that resonates with golf enthusiasts worldwide. But who is this talented golfer, and what makes him stand out? Henley has carved a niche in the golfing world with his impressive skills and consistent performances. Born in Macon, Georgia, he quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his talent from a young age. His journey from amateur tournaments to the PGA Tour is nothing short of inspiring. With multiple PGA Tour wins under his belt, Henley has proven his mettle time and again. Whether you're a die-hard golf fan or just curious about sports, these 40 facts about Russell Henley will give you a deeper insight into his life and career.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Russell Henley, a professional golfer, has an interesting journey that began long before he hit the PGA Tour. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early life and background.

  1. Born on April 12, 1989, in Macon, Georgia, Russell Henley grew up in a family that loved sports.
  2. Henley attended Stratford Academy in Macon, where he played golf and other sports.
  3. He started playing golf at a young age, inspired by his father, Chapin Henley, who was also an avid golfer.
  4. Russell's mother, Sally Henley, was a tennis player, adding to the family's athletic background.
  5. Henley has two siblings, Adam and Katie, who also participated in sports during their school years.

College Career

Henley's college years were marked by significant achievements that set the stage for his professional career.

  1. Russell attended the University of Georgia, where he played for the Georgia Bulldogs golf team.
  2. During his college career, Henley won the 2010 Haskins Award, given to the most outstanding collegiate golfer in the United States.
  3. He was a three-time All-American, showcasing his consistent performance on the golf course.
  4. Henley won the 2010 Porter Cup, a prestigious amateur golf tournament.
  5. In 2011, he became the second amateur to win a Nationwide Tour event, claiming victory at the Stadion Classic at UGA.

Turning Professional

After a successful amateur career, Henley turned professional and quickly made a name for himself.

  1. Russell Henley turned professional in 2011, immediately after graduating from the University of Georgia.
  2. He earned his PGA Tour card for the 2013 season by finishing third on the Web.com Tour money list in 2012.
  3. Henley made a sensational debut on the PGA Tour by winning the Sony Open in Hawaii in January 2013.
  4. His victory at the Sony Open set a record for the lowest score by a rookie in his debut event.
  5. Henley became the first PGA Tour rookie to win his debut in 12 years.

PGA Tour Success

Henley's success on the PGA Tour has been marked by several notable victories and consistent performances.

  1. In 2014, Henley won his second PGA Tour event at The Honda Classic, defeating Rory McIlroy, Russell Knox, and Ryan Palmer in a four-man playoff.
  2. He secured his third PGA Tour victory at the 2017 Shell Houston Open, earning a spot in the Masters Tournament.
  3. Henley has consistently finished in the top 50 of the Official World Golf Ranking.
  4. He has participated in all four major championships, with his best finish being a tie for 11th at the 2017 U.S. Open.
  5. Henley is known for his strong putting skills, often ranking among the top putters on the PGA Tour.

Personal Life

Beyond the golf course, Henley leads a fulfilling personal life that includes family, hobbies, and charitable activities.

  1. Russell Henley married his college sweetheart, Teil Duncan, in 2015.
  2. Teil Duncan is a well-known artist, specializing in vibrant, colorful paintings.
  3. The couple has two children, a son named Robert and a daughter named Ruth.
  4. Henley is an avid fan of the Georgia Bulldogs football team, often attending games when his schedule allows.
  5. He enjoys fishing and often spends his free time on the water.

Charitable Work

Henley is also known for his charitable efforts, giving back to the community in various ways.

  1. Russell Henley supports the Macon Volunteer Clinic, which provides free medical care to uninsured residents of Macon, Georgia.
  2. He has participated in several charity golf tournaments to raise funds for various causes.
  3. Henley is involved with the First Tee program, which aims to introduce golf to young people and teach them valuable life skills.
  4. He has donated to the University of Georgia's golf program, helping to support future generations of golfers.
  5. Henley and his wife, Teil, have also supported local art programs and initiatives.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Russell Henley that add to his unique personality.

  1. Henley is a big fan of country music, often listening to artists like Luke Bryan and Jason Aldean.
  2. He has a pet dog named Charlie, who often travels with him to tournaments.
  3. Henley enjoys cooking and often experiments with new recipes in his kitchen.
  4. He has a passion for classic cars and owns a vintage Ford Mustang.
  5. Henley is an accomplished pianist, having taken lessons since childhood.

Achievements and Awards

Henley's career is decorated with numerous awards and accolades that highlight his talent and dedication to the sport.

  1. Russell Henley was named the 2013 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year.
  2. He has earned multiple top-10 finishes in PGA Tour events throughout his career.
  3. Henley was part of the U.S. team that won the 2011 Walker Cup, a prestigious amateur team competition.
  4. He has been recognized for his sportsmanship and professionalism on the PGA Tour.
  5. Henley continues to be a role model for aspiring golfers, demonstrating that hard work and dedication can lead to success.

Russell Henley: A Golfer Worth Watching

Russell Henley's journey in golf is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in Georgia to making a mark on the PGA Tour, Henley's dedication and skill have earned him a spot among the sport's notable players. His impressive wins, including multiple PGA Tour victories, showcase his talent and determination. Off the course, Henley is known for his humility and strong family values, making him a relatable and admired figure. Whether you're a seasoned golf fan or new to the sport, keeping an eye on Henley's career promises excitement and inspiration. His story reminds us that with hard work and passion, achieving greatness is possible. So next time you catch a golf tournament, remember the name Russell Henley – a golfer who truly embodies the spirit of the game.

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