Akshay Bhatia Wins Arnold Palmer Invitational in Dramatic Playoff

ORLANDO, Fla. – Akshay Bhatia secured his third career PGA Tour victory at Bay Hill Club & Lodge on Sunday, winning the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard in a playoff against Daniel Berger. Bhatia overcame a five-shot deficit in the final nine holes to force the playoff, ultimately prevailing on the first extra hole.

Bhatia’s Comeback and Playoff Victory

Bhatia finished with a three-under-par 69, matching Berger at 15-under 273 for the tournament. The victory marks Bhatia’s first since the 2024 Texas Open and the tournament’s first playoff since 1999. On the playoff hole, Bhatia two-putted for par while Berger missed a putt from just over seven feet.

Final Round Drama and Key Moments

The final round was filled with dramatic swings. Bhatia birdied four consecutive holes on the back nine, starting from the 10th, to surge into contention. An eagle at the par-5 16th, achieved with a three-foot putt after what he called the best six-iron shot of his life, brought him within one stroke of the lead. Berger briefly maintained a one-stroke lead after making birdie on the 16th, but a bogey on the 17th hole led to the tie and subsequent playoff.

Both players faced challenges on the 18th hole in regulation. Berger chose to lay up from the rough rather than risk the lake guarding the green. Bhatia’s second shot landed within 19 feet, requiring a tap-in for par. Berger then sank a 13-foot putt to force the playoff.

Berger’s Performance and Reflections

Despite the loss, Daniel Berger expressed satisfaction with his performance. “Obviously it didn’t go the way I wanted it to,” Berger said. “But at the start of the week if you told me I would have a chance on the 18th hole to win Bay Hill, I would be ecstatic with that. So a lot of positives, a lot of things to learn from.”

Other Notable Performances

Cameron Young and Ludvig Åberg tied for third place at 12-under, while Collin Morikawa finished fifth at 11-under. Sahith Theegala carded the best final-round score of 66, sharing sixth place at 10-under with Russell Henley and Min Woo Lee.

Bhatia’s Perspective on Bay Hill

“Everyone knows when you show up to Bay Hill it’s going to be a test and to play one of the hardest golf courses,” Bhatia said. “And to succeed is really cool.”

Prizes and FedExCup Points

Akshay Bhatia earned $4 million and 700 FedExCup points for his victory. Daniel Berger received $2.2 million and 400 FedExCup points. A full breakdown of points and payouts is available on PGATour.com.