How Did Bhatia Perform While Scheffler Leads with 62 at Travelers Championship?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Akshay Bhatia finished Tied-43 with an even par 70.
- Scottie Scheffler leads with a score of 62.
- The tournament is part of a USD 20 million prize pool.
- There is no cut in this event.
- Players like Aaron Rai and Rory McIlroy also showcased strong performances.
Cromwell (US), June 20 (NationPress) Akshay Bhatia registered an even par 70, placing him Tied-43, even after encountering a double bogey at the USD 20 million Travelers Championship. The reigning World No. 1, Scottie Scheffler, produced an impressive 62, marking his second-best opening-round score this season, sharing the lead with Austin Eckroat.
Bhatia, an Indian American golfer, has enjoyed a commendable season, securing three Top-10 finishes, which includes a Tied-third at the Players, where he played alongside former Open champion, Brian Harman. He managed nine pars on the front nine but dropped a double bogey on the 10th hole. Fortunately, he regained his composure, earning back two shots on the 14th and 17th holes, finishing Tied-43 at even par 70 in a no-cut event.
Recently, Bhatia faced a missed cut at the US Open, but he previously placed T-16 at the Memorial and T-22 at the Charles Schwab Challenge.
Aaron Rai, the Indo-British player, finished T-26 with a solid 2-under 68, achieving four birdies against two bogeys.
Scheffler's best this season is 61 at the CJ CUP Byron Nelson. He has maintained a top-10 finish streak since The Players in March, spanning eight tournaments.
The current FedExCup Champion, who clinched the title in 2024, is aiming for his fourth victory this season, which includes a Major win at the PGA Championship.
Highlighting his performance, Scheffler recorded four birdies in six holes and shot a remarkable 30 on the front nine, expressing satisfaction with his play.
He shares the lead with Austin Eckroat, a two-time winner on the PGA TOUR, who excelled in the last six holes, scoring 5-under par, beginning with a stunning 35-foot eagle putt on No. 13.
Rory McIlroy played a flawless round, finishing with a 64 while enjoying his game. He is joined at 64 by Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley and Wyndham Clark, with Cameron Young just a shot behind.
U.S. Open champion J.J. Spaun experienced fatigue and had a disappointing finish with back-to-back bogeys, ending at 73 while playing alongside Scheffler.
Jordan Spieth withdrew after 13 holes due to tightness in his shoulder blade while warming up.