Not too long ago, the 23-year-old phenom, Akshay Bhatia, turned down the opportunity to link with Phil Mickelson and aligned himself with Tiger Woods by rejecting LIV Golf’s lucrative invitation.

But does the two-time PGA Tour winner regret his decision?

Absolutely not! And it reflected in his response as he talked about his feelings on playing on an indoor and digital golf course. 

Talking about his first time at the TGL, Bhatia said, “Everything goes quick, and I was talking earlier like I’m so nervous, I don’t know what to expect. And it’s a new environment. But it’s so much fun when you get in the thick of things. And obviously, having these guys with the experience, it’s a ton of fun.”

“I hope we can come out strong in the next couple of matches. All of it is awesome.”

Right now, he’s playing for Jupiter Links in the second season of TGL in Tiger Woods’ stead. Why? Woods underwent back surgery and wouldn’t be able to swing for a few more months. Although he can’t play, the former world #1 promised to be present at all times during his team’s play. 

Till then, Bhatia will play with Max Homa and Kevin Kisner, with Woods guiding them through the thick and thin. But how did Woods help Bhatia?

Did Akshay Bhatia receive special advice from Tiger Woods?

Following the initial rounds at the SoFi Center in Florida, Bhatia appeared in an interview with Claire Rogers. He revealed his stance on the Jupiter Links, claiming that the game was fun. And as the conversation proceeded, Rogers asked if Woods had any advice for him. 

“He said he’d help me, he’d guide me around with all the timing, and then as far as just hitting the shots, you know, I think I got it down,” Bhatia replied. 

“But it’s strategic more than I thought.” 

Bhatia continues to validate his decision by thriving under Woods’ guidance in a demanding environment. His comfort, confidence, and growth suggest alignment with Tiger Woods remains the right long-term choice. 

But do you think he could have experienced a stronger career boost with Phil Mickelson’s HyFlyers GC?

Written by

Krushna Pattnaik

Edited by

Joyita Das