Akshay Bhatia wins 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational in playoff

The 24-year-old golfer rallied from 5 strokes back to defeat Daniel Berger in a playoff at Bay Hill Club and Lodge.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Akshay Bhatia played boldly and fired at flags all day, making four straight birdies on the back nine to catch Daniel Berger and force a playoff at the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational. Bhatia then parred the first playoff hole to defeat Berger and earn his third career PGA Tour victory.

Why it matters

Bhatia's come-from-behind victory at the prestigious Arnold Palmer Invitational marks a significant career milestone, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and rally from a large deficit. The win highlights Bhatia's emerging talent and potential to become a top player on the PGA Tour.

The details

Bhatia trailed Berger by as many as 5 strokes on the front nine, but made four straight birdies to start the back nine and then eagled the par-5 16th hole to pull even. After Berger bogeyed the 17th, they finished regulation tied at 15-under 273. On the first playoff hole, Berger missed a 7-foot par putt, allowing Bhatia to 2-putt for par and the victory.

  • Bhatia capped off a 3rd-round 68 with a par-birdie finish in the morning.
  • Bhatia made 3 bogeys on the front 9 of his final round to fall 5 strokes behind Berger.
  • Bhatia made 4 straight birdies to start the back 9 and then eagled the par-5 16th to pull even with Berger.
  • Berger bogeyed the 17th hole, leaving him tied with Bhatia at 15-under 273 after regulation.
  • The playoff took place on the 18th hole at Bay Hill Club and Lodge.

The players

Akshay Bhatia

A 24-year-old professional golfer who earned his third career PGA Tour victory with this win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

Daniel Berger

A veteran PGA Tour player who held the lead for most of the final round but was unable to close out the victory, losing to Bhatia in a playoff.

Scottie Scheffler

The world's top-ranked golfer, who finished tied for 23rd at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

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What they’re saying

“Coming up clutch in the playoff @APInv 🏆”

— Akshay Bhatia (Twitter)

What’s next

The PGA Tour will continue its Florida Swing with the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass in two weeks.

The takeaway

Akshay Bhatia's dramatic come-from-behind victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational showcases his ability to perform under pressure and his emerging status as one of the PGA Tour's rising young stars.