Orlando, March 9 (NationPress) Overcoming a five-shot deficit with just nine holes remaining, Indian American Akshay Bhatia delivered an incredible comeback at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, ultimately forcing a play-off at 15-under. He triumphed over Daniel Berger in the first extra hole, marking the most significant victory of his career.

Another Indian American, Sahith Theegala, also showcased his skills, finishing T-6. After a challenging third round in which the 28-year-old scored 3-over 75, he rebounded impressively with a final round of 6-under 66, concluding the tournament at 10-under par.

The 24-year-old Bhatia took bold risks, as Palmer often encouraged, charging through the back nine with an impressive streak that included four consecutive birdies starting from the tenth and an eagle on the 16th hole to tie for the lead at 15-under. He clinched victory in the first play-off hole, seizing the $20 million Signature event.

With three holes to play, Bhatia was still two strokes behind when he hit a stunning 6-iron approach on the perilous par-5 16th, setting up an eagle that closed the gap to one.

“If he was watching, he must be proud of how that turned out,” Bhatia remarked while donning the winner's signature red cardigan.

“Playing boldly — that was a hallmark of Mr. Palmer,” he expressed. “I could feel his energy and the excitement in the air. I feel incredibly fortunate to have won this tournament.”

Bhatia also attempted a risky shot over the rock-enclosed water on the 18th during regulation play, coming close to success. He finished with a 3-under 69, securing his third PGA TOUR title, all won in play-offs.

This victory propels Bhatia into the top 20 of the world rankings as the golf season heats up, culminating in the Masters next month.

Berger initially held a four-shot lead at the turn but lost his advantage after missing a 7-foot par putt on the 17th, finishing with a score of 15-under 273.

During the play-off, Berger struggled with his drive but managed to putt from 106 feet, rolling it to 7 feet below the hole. Unfortunately, his par putt to extend the play-off missed the target.

Bhatia played conservatively to the center of the green, needing just two putts from nearly 30 feet to secure the win alongside the $4 million prize, with some of “Arnie's Army” cheering him on.

Beginning the back nine with four consecutive birdies, one of which was a remarkable putt just shy of 60 feet on the 11th hole, Bhatia experienced a two-shot swing at the 13th. His caddie, Joe Greiner, encouraged him to hit the best 6-iron of his life on the pivotal 16th.

Berger aimed to be the first wire-to-wire winner at Bay Hill in a decade.

Bhatia and Berger resumed their third round on Sunday morning, with Berger initially leading by three until the 18th hole, where a bogey from the right rough allowed Bhatia to make a birdie from a 10-foot putt that teetered on the lip before falling in.

Cameron Young finished without a bogey, scoring a 69 and tying for third with Ludvig Aberg (67). Meanwhile, Scottie Scheffler struggled again on the 18th, posting a double bogey for a 73 and tying for 24th.