Daijiworld Media Network - Orlando

Orlando, Mar 9: Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia produced a remarkable comeback to win the Arnold Palmer Invitational, defeating Daniel Berger in a playoff after finishing tied at 15-under at Bay Hill.

Trailing the leader by five shots with nine holes remaining, the 24-year-old mounted a stunning charge on the back nine. He fired four consecutive birdies starting from the 10th hole and delivered a crucial eagle on the par-5 16th to close the gap, eventually forcing a playoff. Bhatia then secured victory on the first extra hole, claiming the biggest title of his career.

The win marks Bhatia’s third PGA Tour title, with all three victories coming in playoffs. He carded a final-round 3-under 69 to finish the tournament at 15-under par and pocketed the $4 million winner’s prize from the $20 million signature event.

Reflecting on his performance, Bhatia paid tribute to legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, whose name the tournament bears. Wearing the iconic red cardigan awarded to the champion, he said the late golfer’s famous motto—“play boldly”—inspired his aggressive approach during the closing stages.

In the playoff, Berger managed to reach the green but missed a crucial par putt from about seven feet that could have extended the contest. Bhatia calmly played to the center of the green and sealed the victory with a two-putt from just under 30 feet.

Another Indian-American golfer, Sahith Theegala, also impressed during the tournament, finishing tied for sixth at 10-under par. After a difficult third round of 3-over 75, the 28-year-old bounced back with a strong final-round 6-under 66.

Elsewhere, Cameron Young carded a bogey-free 69 to finish tied for third alongside Ludvig Aberg, while world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler ended tied for 24th after a final-round 73 that included a double bogey on the 18th hole.

The victory moves Bhatia into the world’s top 20 ahead of a crucial stretch of tournaments on the PGA Tour leading up to the The Masters next month.