Akshay Bhatia bagged his third PGA Tour win at Bay Hill Club on Sunday. The 24-year-old took home $4 million after battling 54-hole leader Daniel Berger in signature Bhatia fashion—finishing tied and winning in a playoff. All three of his PGA Tour victories have come via playoffs.
He married his fiancée Presleigh Schultz, in December. But amid the happiness, Bhatia also revealed a heartbreaking moment from his wedding day. His five-year-old niece Mia passed away after battling a rare illness, shortly after attending the ceremony.
“She was a fighter for a long time. She wasn’t supposed to make it past a year old,” he said. “The coolest thing about it was she was there at our wedding, which was really hard for her to travel. And it was the day of our wedding she passed away. She didn’t make it.”
“We tried everything and had a great support system. But there are so many cool things about that week. She stayed in the house where we got married. It was called Heaven on Earth. She loved the sand. She got to see everyone.”
Bhatia dedicated the win to her. He also revealed that she became his inspiration, adding that after the heavy morning rains, a rainbow appeared in the sky, reminding him of Mia and that she was watching over him.
Akshay Bhatia and Wife Presleigh’s Immediate Reaction to the Win
After the final putt that sealed his win, Bhatia couldn’t contain his excitement, throwing fist pumps into the air. But it was a moment caught by the cameras a little later that drew attention.
His wife came running toward him and Bhatia embraced her in a tight hug before planting a kiss on her lips, sharing the moment with the person closest to him.
After donning the red cardigan, the couple posed together alongside the trophy, capturing another set of heartwarming moments. She also posted multiple stories showing off her husband’s victory.
It was the first signature event win of the young golfer’s career. Up next, he will tee off next week at TPC Sawgrass for The Players Championship.
