Orlando: Akshay Bhatia produced a stunning comeback to capture the Arnold Palmer Invitational, rallying from five shots behind with nine holes remaining before defeating Daniel Berger in a playoff to secure the biggest victory of his career here.
Indian-American Bhatia finished regulation play at 15-under-par after a brilliant charge on the back nine. The 24-year-old then sealed the title on the first playoff hole on Sunday, claiming his third PGA TOUR victory and the $4 million winner’s prize at the $20 million Signature Event.
Sahith Theegala also impressed during the tournament, finishing tied sixth. After struggling in the third round with a 3-over 75, the 28-year-old bounced back with a strong final round of 6-under 66 to end the week at 10-under par.
Bhatia’s remarkable comeback echoed Arnold Palmer’s famous philosophy of “playing boldly.” On the back nine he surged with four consecutive birdies starting at the 10th hole, followed by a crucial eagle at the par-5 16th to pull within one shot of the lead and force a playoff.
He was still two shots behind with three holes remaining when he struck a superb 6-iron close to the pin on the 16th, setting up the eagle that sparked his late charge.
“If he was up there watching, he’d probably be proud of how that finished,” said Bhatia while wearing the traditional red cardigan awarded to the tournament champion.
“Play bold — that’s something everyone associates with Mr. Palmer. I could feel that energy out there. It was amazing, and I’m very fortunate to win this tournament.” Bhatia nearly ended the contest in regulation when he attacked the flag on the water-guarded 18th hole. He closed with a 3-under 69 before prevailing in the playoff. All three of his PGA TOUR victories have now come via playoffs.
The win lifts Bhatia into the world’s top 20 as the golf season heads into a crucial stretch leading up to next month’s Masters.(PTI)
