Indian-American Golfer Bhatia Holds Lead in Texas, Must Win to Qualify for Masters

Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia is on the verge of securing a spot at the Masters with a strong performance at the Valero Texas Open. Bhatia, 22, leads the field by five shots after two rounds, needing a win to secure his Masters debut.

Bhatia started the tournament with a strong 63 and followed it up with a 2-under 70 in the second round, maintaining a five-shot lead. Despite some early setbacks, including bogeys on the back nine, he managed to finish strong with birdies on the front nine to extend his lead.

With a total score of 11-under 133, Bhatia is well ahead of his closest competitors, including Denny McCarthy, Rory McIlroy, and Tommy Fleetwood. The Valero Texas Open holds a spot for the winner to compete at Augusta National.

While Bhatia won the Barracuda Championship last summer, it did not qualify him for the Masters. Other players in contention for the Masters spot include Brendan Todd, Webb Simpson, and Peter Kuest, who are not currently in the field.

The cut for the tournament saw 82 players make it at 1-over 145, with competitors from various countries, including the Philippines and Japan, putting up a strong performance. Bhatia’s impressive showing so far underscores his potential to make a mark in the world of professional golf.

As Bhatia heads into the final rounds of the Valero Texas Open, his eyes are set on securing a historic victory that would propel him to his first Masters appearance. The golfing world is eagerly watching to see if the young Indian-American can maintain his lead and make his mark on the prestigious tournament.