It’s been a remarkable journey for defending PGA champion, Keegan Bradley – from Altanta to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean at Kiawah Island.

Then last week Bradley reminded everyone of his credentials in capturing the WGC – Bridgestone Invitational and just a week before his defence of the season’s final Major.

“Yeah, it’s a great feeling, a lot of really good vibes here at the PGA, just seeing all the people again, all the PGA Officials and members of the PGA,” said Bradley.

Keegan Bradley reliving his remarkable journey from Atlanta to Kiawah Island. (Photo -Eoin Clarke/www.golffile.ie)

“It just brings back a lot of great memories.  We’re here at a great golf course at Kiawah, and I think a lot of the players are looking forward to Thursday.

“After I won last year here at the PGA, it was a life‑changer for a lot of different reasons.

“A lot of people knew more who I was, kind of validated my position out here on Tour as one of the top players.  It just was a lifelong dream to win a major championship, and it kind of put me in a different category with some of my idols.”

And what now does it mean for Bradley to arrive at Kiawah Island for the 94th PGA Championship at the defending holder of the Rodman Wanamaker trophy.

“It’s a couple different emotions,” he said.

“One, it frees me up a little bit.  I’m not as worried about The Ryder Cup.  Any time you win, it’s a great feeling.  A little less pressure than you normally have.

“But also there’s a lot more pressure now, playing well, coming back to the PGA.  I’ve got a great course here that I feel like suits me very well, and I want to defend my title as best I can.  So it’s kind of a combination.

“But I think overall winning, it’s going to help me this week free up a little bit.  It’s just a matter of getting rested and ready to play.”