If you’ve watched a PGA Tour broadcast lately, you’ve probably noticed Russell Henley's name hovering near the top of the leaderboard. He’s got that smooth, rhythmic swing and a putting stroke that makes the hardest greens on tour look like a local muni. But while his game is world-class, his vibe is distinctly Southern. People often ask, where is Russell Henley from, and the answer isn't just a coordinate on a map—it’s the backbone of his entire career.
He’s a Georgia boy through and through.
Henley was born and raised in Macon, Georgia. Specifically, he grew up in the heart of the "Cherry Blossom Capital of the World," a place where high school sports are a religion and the heat is thick enough to chew. It wasn't just golf, either. Before he was chasing birdies, he was a standout point guard for the Stratford Academy Eagles. You can still see that basketball footwork in his golf stance today.
The Macon Foundations
Growing up in Macon, Henley wasn't just some country club kid with a silver spoon. His late father, Dr. Chapin Henley, was a legendary figure in the community. Dr. Henley delivered over 5,000 babies as an OB-GYN and even founded the Macon Volunteer Clinic to provide free healthcare. That sense of community service stuck. Even now, with millions in career earnings, Russell heads back home for the Kevin Brown Russell Henley Celebrity Classic, which raises money for local charities like the Macon Rescue Mission.
He basically grew up at Idle Hour Country Club.
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That’s where the magic started. While other kids were focused on summer vacations, Henley was grinding on the practice green. He won three straight state individual titles at Stratford Academy (2004–2006). He wasn't just good; he was the guy everyone in Middle Georgia knew was going to make it.
Why the University of Georgia Was the Only Choice
When it came time for college, he didn't stray far. He headed about 90 miles north to Athens to play for the University of Georgia Bulldogs.
His time in Athens was nothing short of historic. He didn't just play; he dominated. By the time he graduated in 2011 with a degree in Consumer Economics, he had tied the school record for most career wins (seven).
- 2010 Haskins Award: He won the "Heisman of Golf" as the nation’s top collegiate player.
- Low Amateur at the 2010 U.S. Open: He finished T16 at Pebble Beach while still a college junior.
- A Historic Win: In 2011, while still an amateur, he won the Stadion Classic at UGA on the Nationwide Tour (now the Korn Ferry Tour).
Winning a professional event while still in college? That doesn't happen often. It was the first sign that he was built for the big stage.
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Living the Dream in Columbus
So, where does he live now? He’s stayed true to his roots. While many pros flock to the tax havens of Florida or the desert of Arizona, Henley lives in Columbus, Georgia.
He and his wife, Teil Duncan, a wildly successful artist (you've likely seen her vibrant beach scenes and figures on Instagram), moved there to be closer to family. They have three kids now: Robert Russell, Ruth Teil, and Jane Edith. Life in Columbus is a bit slower than the PGA Tour circus, and that’s exactly how he likes it. When he’s not on the road, you’ll likely find him practicing at the Country Club of Columbus or hanging out with his brother Matt, who actually caddied for him during that famous 2010 U.S. Open run.
The 2025 Breakthrough
Lately, Henley has been playing the best golf of his life. In March 2025, he donned the famous red cardigan by winning the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill. It was a gritty, one-shot victory over Collin Morikawa, sealed with a clutch chip-in on the 16th.
That win helped him punch his ticket to the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. For a guy who grew up playing on the grainy Bermuda grass of Georgia, seeing him compete on the world's biggest stage in New York was a full-circle moment for his fans back in Macon.
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What Most People Get Wrong
People think Russell is just a "short hitter" who putts well. Honestly? That’s a lazy take. While he’s definitely a specialist with the flat stick, his iron play is statistically some of the best on the planet. He’s a tactical golfer. He doesn't try to overpower a course; he dissects it.
He’s also an avid guitar player. If you’re ever at a PGA Tour event and see a guy jamming onstage with O.A.R. or Darius Rucker, there’s a decent chance it’s Russell. He’s a huge fan of the Foo Fighters and Dave Grohl, which sort of fits his "low-key but high-energy" personality.
Actionable Takeaways for Fans
If you're following Russell Henley’s career, here is how you can stay connected to his journey:
- Watch the Majors: Henley has become a consistent threat in the big four. His T4 at the 2023 Masters and top-10 finishes at the 2024 U.S. Open and Open Championship show he’s ready for a breakthrough.
- Support Local: Check out the work of the Macon Volunteer Clinic. It’s the legacy of Russell's father and a cause the family still champions.
- Follow the Art: If you like his style, look up Teil Duncan’s artwork. Their careers are a unique blend of sports and fine art that you don't often see in the pro golf world.
Russell Henley might travel the world, but his heart never really left the 478 area code. Whether he’s at East Lake for the Tour Championship or Bethpage for the Ryder Cup, he’s always representing Macon.
Next Steps: Keep an eye on the official PGA Tour FedExCup standings to see how Henley is tracking for the upcoming playoffs. His consistency makes him a lock for the top 30, but his recent form suggests he could be making a serious run at the #1 spot this season.