Daniel Berger’s path back to form has taken time and several interruptions along the way.

That journey began with a break from the game that lasted far longer than he had expected. His back issue forced him to step away from competition after the 2022 U.S. Open. 

The problem involved a bulging disc along with deep bone sensitivity, which meant surgery was not seen as the right option at the time. 

Because of this, Berger chose rehabilitation and remained out of competition for 19 months before returning at The American Express in 2024.

However, the return did not mean the setbacks were completely behind the 2021 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am winner. Just as he began finding rhythm again on the PGA Tour, another setback arrived in August 2025. 

During the BMW Championship, Berger broke his right ring finger in the middle of a swing, which forced him to step away from competition once again.

That pause added another delay to his return, but this week has brought him back into contention.

After Interrupted Play at Bay Hill, Daniel Berger Holds a Two-Shot Lead

Despite the weather interrupting play at Bay Hill, Daniel Berger holds the lead at 13-under at the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational. Heavy rain on Saturday afternoon delayed the third round, and play was later suspended because of darkness, with several players still on the course.

When play resumes Sunday morning, Berger will return to the par-5 16th hole with a 33-foot eagle putt, sitting two shots ahead of Akshay Bhatia, who is at 11-under. 

Ludvig Åberg and Sahith Theegala are also among the players who still need to finish their third round before the final round begins.

His position at the top comes after a strong start earlier in the week. Berger opened the tournament with a 9-under 63 to take the early lead and followed it with a 4-under 68 in the second round, moving to 13-under at the halfway stage.

If he maintains that position through Sunday, Berger could secure his first PGA Tour win since 2021, along with the tournament’s $4 million prize and a place in the Masters field.

What do you think, can Daniel Berger convert this lead into a win?

Read more at Daily Club Golf!

Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Joyita Das