Akshay Bhatia believes he does something with his driver that ‘not many guys’ do on the PGA Tour

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Akshay Bhatia is Scottie Scheffler’s nearest challenger after two days of action at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas.

Scheffler sent a statement on Friday after carding an eight-under 64 at Albany to take control of Tiger Woods’ event.

The world number one’s performance took the headlines, but Bhatia also produced some eye-catching golf. The young American carded seven birdies and sits in a tie for second alongside Justin Thomas.

Bhatia, who has been likened to Phil Mickelson, is also playing a new driver this week. The 22-year-old believes he’s finally found the right club to suit his unique swing.

Akshay Bhatia drops verdict on new driver at Hero World Challenge

Speaking during his post-round press conference on Friday, Bhatia discussed the latest club in his bag.

“Yeah, I mean, I was playing a three-year-old driver and as I said yesterday, the one I really loved, it failed testing. And then the one I won with at Barracuda was good for that week; the ball doesn’t curve that much, but I still was searching. It’s just been a long process for that, just trying to find a driver that fits what we want,” he said.

The American then admitted that his club path is unlike most on the PGA Tour.

Bhatia added: “The guys at Callaway have put a lot of time and effort into me because I’m, I would say, a unicorn person to fit because my club path is anywhere from four to nine, right? There’s just not many guys that swing a driver like I do. Just trying to find something that we can keep the spin down, but it doesn’t go left. It’s just a hard balance.”

Akshay Bhatia driving stats 2024

Bhatia’s driving last year was among the best on tour, considering he was using an older model club.

He was 27th for total driving through the year and was one of the more accurate hitters on tour.

However, Bhatia is 104th in total distance, an area he will look to improve in when the new PGA Tour season starts in January.

Overall, the American’s tee-to-green play was impressive last year. Bhatia gained strokes with his approaches and with his tee shots. Unfortunately, the 22-year-old was let down at times around the green.

Nevertheless, the 22-year-old is undoubtedly a solid prospect to keep an eye on when the new PGA Tour season starts at The Sentry next month.