PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. — Akshay Bhatia is making a strong push at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, continuing a remarkable run of form with a precision approach shot on the 7th hole at Pebble Beach. The 21-year-classic golfer carded a birdie after a stunning 102-yard tee shot landed just 8 feet from the pin, adding to a day already marked by impressive play. This latest success comes as other top players also navigate the challenging conditions at the iconic California course.
Bhatia’s performance comes after a strong showing on Friday, where he shared the lead with Ryo Hisatsune at 15-under 129, the lowest 36-hole score since the tournament adopted its current two-course rotation in 2024. The favorable conditions of the first two days – dry fairways and soft greens – allowed for low scoring, but players are bracing for potentially tougher conditions as the weekend progresses. The tournament has also drawn attention for off-course buzz surrounding a potential celebrity sighting, though the focus remains firmly on the competition.
Bhatia’s Precision Approach Sets Up Birdie
The shot on the 7th hole exemplifies Bhatia’s accuracy. According to PGA Tour coverage, the 102-yard tee shot landed within striking distance, setting up a straightforward birdie putt. This continues a trend of exceptional iron play for Bhatia, who has been consistently placing his shots in advantageous positions throughout the tournament. Footage of the shot showcases the precision of his approach.
Akshay Bhatia has birdied six out of his first seven holes during the third round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and currently holds a lead! 🐦https://t.co/wJq9w9qJ9q
— PGA TOUR Communications (@PGATOURComms) February 10, 2024
Strong Start to the Third Round
The birdie on the 7th isn’t an isolated incident. Bhatia began the third round with a flurry of birdies, having previously birdied six of his first seven holes. This aggressive start builds on his impressive performance over the first two rounds, where he remained bogey-free at both Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill. He also sank a 6-foot birdie putt on the 6th hole and a 28-foot birdie putt on the 5th, demonstrating his ability to capitalize on opportunities. Prior to this, he hit a 77-yard approach to 8 feet on the 4th, setting up another birdie chance. His consistent scoring has positioned him favorably as the tournament enters its final stages.
Other players are also making moves on the leaderboard. Sam Burns chipped in from 47 feet for a birdie on the 18th, while Sepp Straka chipped in from 40 yards on the same hole. Rickie Fowler and Sam Burns are one shot behind the leaders, and notable players like Xander Schauffele, Jordan Spieth, and defending champion Rory McIlroy remain within striking distance. Even Scottie Scheffler, currently nine shots back, believes he remains in contention, stating, “We’ll see how it shakes out at the finish of the day. It’s going to accept two pretty special rounds, really three special rounds, but you’re never out of it.”
Looking Ahead
As the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am progresses, the focus will be on whether Bhatia can maintain his momentum and withstand the anticipated tougher conditions. The leaderboard remains tightly packed, promising a thrilling finish. The weekend rounds will be crucial as players battle for position and the coveted title at Pebble Beach. The tournament continues to draw significant attention, not only for the high-level competition but also for the surrounding atmosphere and potential celebrity appearances.
What are your thoughts on Akshay Bhatia’s performance so far? Share your predictions for the weekend in the comments below!
