A rare all-lefty pairing just paid off on the PGA Tour. Akshay Bhatia credits his left-handed caddie for providing a unique edge in his victory at the $20 million Arnold Palmer Invitational. Their new partnership is already yielding major results.

Bhatia spoke about the dynamic with his caddie during a press conference on Sunday.

“Him [Joe Greiner] being left-handed is really, really cool. That doesn't happen often where you have two left-handers. I think it helps a lot with certain shots, how it feels, certain lies.”

Their partnership began in December 2025 when Greiner joined Bhatia’s bag as his full-time caddie, with the pair making their first appearance together at the Hero World Challenge. From there, they've been inseparable.

On March 8, Bhatia secured the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, marking a milestone early in their time working together. But there's another reason why Greiner is able to guide Bhatia well.

Before joining Bhatia, Greiner spent six seasons working with Max Homa, a run that included six PGA Tour victories. 

Greiner has also spent time on the bag for players such as sixteen-time PGA Tour winner Justin Thomas and two-time major champion Collin Morikawa.

That on-course understanding was clearly reflected in the 2023 Barracuda Championship winner's performance at Bay Hill.

Akshay Bhatia Rallies Past Daniel Berger to Claim the Arnold Palmer Invitational

Akshay Bhatia finished the tournament at 15-under par with a total of 273 after carding a 3-under 69 in the final round. 

The 24-year-old closed a five-shot gap on the back nine before defeating Daniel Berger on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff to secure his third PGA Tour title.

The comeback took shape with four consecutive birdies from the 10th through the 13th holes. Later, a 6-iron approach on the par-5 16th set up a tap-in eagle that shifted the momentum late in the round.

The playoff was decided on the 18th hole at Bay Hill. Bhatia made par with a two-putt, while Berger three-putted for bogey.

Now, he will make his mark at the PLAYERS Championship.

Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar