Akshay Bhatia Claims Dramatic Victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational

Akshay Bhatia produced a remarkable back-nine comeback to win the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, defeating Daniel Berger in a dramatic play-off to claim his third PGA Tour title.

Berger looked set for victory for most of the final round. The American held a four-shot lead with nine holes to play and appeared firmly in control as he chased his first PGA Tour win since 2021.

However, Bhatia had other ideas.

Starting the back nine several shots behind, Bhatia launched an incredible charge up the leaderboard. Four consecutive birdies from the 10th hole quickly brought him back into contention and applied pressure on Berger.

The turning point came at the par-five 16th hole, where Bhatia produced a stunning eagle after a brilliant approach shot. At the same time, Berger dropped a shot, allowing Bhatia to pull level heading into the closing stretch.

Both players held their nerve over the final holes, finishing the tournament tied at 15-under-par, forcing the event into a play-off.

The players returned to the 18th hole for the sudden-death play-off.

Berger found himself in trouble after three-putting from long range, missing an eight-foot putt that would have kept the pressure on. Bhatia calmly found the green in regulation and secured victory with a composed two-putt par.

The win marks Bhatia’s third PGA Tour victory, with all three of his titles coming via play-offs.

After the round, Bhatia praised the challenge of Bay Hill:

“Everyone knows when you show up to Bay Hill it’s going to be a real test. To succeed on one of the toughest courses on tour is incredibly special.”

Sweden’s Ludvig Åberg finished three shots behind in a tie for third alongside Cameron Young, while Collin Morikawa secured fifth place.

England’s Harry Hall also impressed, finishing inside the top 10 after a solid final round.

World number one Scottie Scheffler ended the tournament tied for 24th as he prepares for the upcoming Players Championship.

The PGA Tour now remains in Florida for The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass, one of the biggest events of the year.

Rory McIlroy returns as defending champion, while Scottie Scheffler will be aiming to claim the title for a third time in four years.