Brooke Henderson Embarks on a New Chapter with Veteran Caddie John Killeen

Brooke Henderson, a prominent figure on the LPGA Tour for over a decade, is navigating a significant change in 2024. While her professional career has been marked by consistent success, this year feels remarkably different, almost like a rookie season. For eleven years, Henderson’s constant companion on the global golf circuit was her big sister, Brittany. Now, with Brittany expecting her first child, Henderson is beginning her fifth tournament of the season, the JM Eagle LA Championship, with seasoned caddie John Killeen.

“It’s been weird for sure,” the 28-year-old Henderson admitted, reflecting on life on the road without her best friend. “You know, she’s my best friend, and for 11 years we traveled together and were together basically 24/7 except for off weeks. It’s been a big change, but I still talk to her all the time, so that part hasn’t changed too much. But, yeah, just adjusting to the new life out on tour, dealing with what most players have dealt with their entire career, so that’s kind of interesting to learn more about.”

A Sister’s Legacy and a New Partnership

Brittany has been instrumental in Brooke’s success, caddying for 13 of her 14 LPGA victories. The pair share a close bond and reside near each other in Naples, Florida. The only victory Brittany missed was Brooke’s first, at the 2015 Cambia Portland Classic, where both were competing. Even when not caddying, Brittany remains a vital part of Brooke’s game, frequently practicing course management strategies with her sister during their time at home.

Henderson’s last tournament with Brittany, the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in late January, saw her tie for third place. Following a series of less impressive results this spring, she rebounded with a top-25 finish at the Aramco Championship at Shadow Creek. Henderson previously won this event in 2021, when it was known as the Hugel-Air Premia LA Open.

John Killeen: A Wealth of Experience

John Killeen brings a wealth of experience to Henderson’s team, having caddied on the LPGA Tour for several decades. His wife, Denise, is also a former LPGA Tour player, and he has previously worked with renowned golfers such as Cristie Kerr, Juli Inkster, Meg Mallon, and Lizette Salas.

“He’s such an amazing guy and he has so many connections out here on tour, so that’s been really fun,” Henderson shared. “Just trying to continue to improve and get better. We had a really good finish in Vegas a couple of weeks ago. That felt really good on such a challenging golf course. So I feel like the game is right there and I’m looking forward to having some good weeks coming up.”

This transition marks a new era for Brooke Henderson, blending her established talent with the seasoned guidance of John Killeen. Fans will be watching closely to see how this new partnership unfolds on the LPGA Tour. You can find more information about the LPGA tour and Brooke Henderson on the official LPGA website.