Russell Knox boosts Ryder Cup hopes with second PGA Tour win

Russell Knox on his way to victory in the Travelers Championship on the PGA Tour. Picture: Getty Images

Despite the dramatic one-shot victory at TPC River Highlands, the Scot can’t secure automatic qualification for Darren Clarke’s team at Hazeltine next month.

But he is now a strong contender for one of three captain’s picks after following up last November’s HSBC Champions victory in Shanghai with a second PGA Tour triumph.

Knox holed a 12-foot par putt at the last to pip American Jerry Kelly, tossing his cap away in delight before being embraced by his wife, Andrea.

The Scot closed with a 68 for a 14-under-par total to join Jason Day, Jordan Spieth, Dustin Johnson and Adam Scott as the only multiple winners on the PGA Tour this season

“That was crazy,” Knox, who started the final round three shots behind playing partner Daniel Berger, told Sky Sports.

“I played nicely today and to make a putt like that to win is everyone’s dream. It’s the first time I’ve been in that position.

“A lot of people say that putting is my weakness but I practice it so hard and have always thought I was a good putter and just showed it.”

Told the names of the other players who’ve won more than once on the US circuit this year, the Invernesian added: “It’s been an incredible year for me.

“I tell myself every day that I’m good enough to win tournaments and it’s been an incredible ride.”

As Berger collapsed, Knox made his move with back-to-back birdies at the 13th and 14th.

He came perilously close to finding the water at both the 15th and 16th before leaving a birdie putt on the edge of the hole at the 17th.

The 31-year-old then pushed his drive at the last, found a greenside bunker with his approach but kept his nerve to roll in that putt.

Told that Clarke would probably have been watching on TV as he enjoys a holiday in the Bahamas, Knox said: “I think I’ll join him there tomorrow.”