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Russell Henley says playing with Scottie Scheffler brings no extra pressure

Originally posted on HITC | By James Shearman | Last updated Sep 25, 2025 6:07 AM ET

Russell Henley’s form could play a key role in shaping the United States’ fortunes at this week’s Ryder Cup.

Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau are the obvious names expected to lead from the front, especially with how good Bethpage Black looks set up for them.

But Keegan Bradley will need more than just his two stars firing. He’ll be looking for others to step up, and Henley might be the player who can do that.

The only question mark around Henley is whether he can handle the pressure of playing alongside the world’s best golfer. It’s a big stage, but if he settles early, there’s no reason he can’t make a serious impact.

Russell Henley’s thoughts on teaming up with Scottie Scheffler at the Ryder Cup

Henley and Scheffler have a close relationship, having already played together in several practice rounds ahead of the Ryder Cup.

Given their time spent together on the course, it seems likely that Bradley will pair them up at some point during the opening two days. Fans will be hoping they can turn that familiarity into points.

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Speaking to reporters before the event, Henley said he is eager to embrace the challenge and doesn’t feel any added pressure from playing alongside Scheffler.

“I don’t think so,” he said. “I think the pressure that I feel is the pressure that I put on myself. I’ve been friends with Scottie for a bunch of years now and get along with him great. I don’t really feel that from him. I just enjoy being around him.”

The world number three went on to explain why being paired with someone like Tiger Woods would come with a different kind of pressure.

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“I feel like if I were paired with Tiger, it would probably feel a little bit different just because I grew up watching Tiger all the time,” Henley said. “And because Scottie is younger than me and I’ve spent so much time with him, I guess I just feel a little bit differently about it.”

Russell Henley hasn’t seen a change in Scottie Scheffler’s approach ahead of the Ryder Cup

Scottie Scheffler didn’t have his best showing at the 2023 Ryder Cup, and he’ll be looking to make amends this time around at Bethpage Black.

Despite that, Henley told reporters he hasn’t seen any difference in Scheffler’s approach this week, noting that he’s always dialled in no matter what.

“I feel like I haven’t,” he said. “I feel like he has high expectations for himself, and it doesn’t matter if he’s playing a nine-hole game for fun at home or if he’s playing in a major.

“I feel like he holds himself to the same standard. He wants to play great. He wants to win. I don’t think it matters what the situation is. I think that’s just how he’s wired.”

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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