Daniel Berger's lead cut to one shot over Akshay Bhatia at Bay Hill

Bhatia closes in on Berger after rain-delayed third round at Arnold Palmer Invitational

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Akshay Bhatia has closed the gap on Daniel Berger's lead at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill. After a rain delay, Bhatia sank a birdie putt on Sunday morning to cut Berger's lead to just one shot heading into the final round.

Why it matters

The Arnold Palmer Invitational is one of the PGA Tour's marquee events, and a close battle between Berger and Bhatia heading into the final round will create excitement and drama for golf fans.

The details

Bhatia waited until Sunday morning to sink a crucial birdie putt that allowed him to trim Berger's lead to just one shot. The third round was delayed due to rain, setting up the dramatic finish to the day's play.

  • The third round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational was delayed due to rain.
  • Bhatia sank his birdie putt on Sunday morning to cut Berger's lead to one shot.

The players

Daniel Berger

A professional golfer currently leading the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill.

Akshay Bhatia

A professional golfer who has closed the gap on Berger's lead at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

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What’s next

The final round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational will take place on Sunday, with Berger holding a slim one-shot lead over Bhatia.

The takeaway

The close battle between Berger and Bhatia heading into the final round of the prestigious Arnold Palmer Invitational promises an exciting finish for golf fans.