In a stunning moment for the golf world, 19-year-old Akshay Bhatia registered his first win on the Korn Ferry Tour, announcing his entry onto the big level with a storm. In a lopsided win, he finished 7-under, three strokes ahead of the nearest competitor and one of the three to break even over the course of the tournament. Truly exceptional stuff!
As the developmental tour for the PGA Tour, the Bahamas Great Exuma Classic at Sandals Emerald Bay served as its season-opener this week. In just his sixth start on the Korn Ferry Tour and his first ever as an official member, the left-handed youngster became only the third teenage winner on the tour’s history. The other two names- Jason Day and Sungjae Im- go on to show what lies ahead for Akshay!
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Meanwhile, his caddie for the big event was none other than his girlfriend, Presleigh. While many golfers have their partners do the honours, not all have the same story to share. Apparently, the two met online, and she has not a clue about the sport! Let’s check it out-
Watch This Story- From Drinking Fan’s Beer to His Iconic Tweener: Nick Kyrgios Puts Up a Crazy Show at Australian Open 2022
Akshay Bhatia gets candid about his Korn Ferry Tour victory
Presleigh, despite not knowing the first thing about the sport, was there to support him. Revealing how the two met, he said, “I was playing in Valero Texas Open so I was like ‘Hey, let’s meet up.’ You know, she’s never watched golf. Her little brother plays a little bit, but didn’t really know what was going on. And, so we met there and now she’s caddying in my first Korn Ferry event as a member, which is awesome.”
It all started with an Instagram DM and a professional golf dream. pic.twitter.com/K3p5YLiHQh
— Korn Ferry Tour (@KornFerryTour) January 15, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Subsequently, he who earned a lot of criticism for his decision to skip college and turn pro, revealed how that was going for him. He admitted, “Well, I ended up turning pro early, didn’t go to college. Got my high school diploma in like three years, two years, and then turned pro when I was 17. So, it was a pretty big jump.”
He added, “It’s pretty cool to think that at 19-years-old, I can play on the Korn Ferry Tour and I’m a member and you know, I earned every ounce of it. But there’s still bigger goals I want to achieve.” That’s right, Akshay. As unbelievable as these accomplishments are, so early on in his career, there’s still a long way to go!
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
This fourth win of his professional career will definitely put him in a great place to earn a card on the PGA Tour next year. And in case you still haven’t, check out his tremendously powerful swing!