Bradley back to defend Grand Slam title

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29: Keegan Bradley has been handed a lifeline to defend his PGA Grand Slam of Golf title.

Bradley, who did not win the four majors this season, received his invitation after reigning PGA champion Rory McIlroy declined due to a conflict of interest in his schedule.

McIlroy is slated to compete in the BMW Masters in Shanghai, China on October 25 to 28.

Bradley’s invitation completes the foursome for the PGA Grand Slam at Port Royal, which pits the Major winners against each other for a purse of $1.35 million.

Masters champion Bubba Watson, US Open champion Webb Simpson, and Open champion Ernie Els will complete the field for the event slated for October 22-24.

It will be the rookie appearance for Watson and Simpson, while 2011 PGA Champion Bradley returns to Port Royal Golf Course where he won last year’s PGA Grand Slam of Golf title.

Els marks his fourth appearance in the season-ending showcase of major champions, having won in 1997 and 2010.

Bradley, who tied for third in the PGA Championship at The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, South Carolina, won the 2011 PGA Grand Slam of Golf by one stroke over 2011 Masters Champion Charl Schwartzel. McIlroy, the 2011 U.S. Open Champion, finished third; and 2011 Open Champion Darren Clarke was fourth.

The winner of the Grand Slam earns $600,000 with second place taking home $300,000, third place $250,000 and fourth place $200,000.