Indian American golfer Akshay Bhatia clinched the Valero Texas Open title after a dramatic playoff victory on April 8, 2024, earning himself a spot in the Augusta Masters scheduled for May 2024.
Bhatia, aged 22, secured his first qualification for a major tournament by winning the Valero Texas Open, defeating Danny McCarthy in the playoff round.
McCarthy, who had already secured a Masters spot by breaking into the world top 50, mounted a strong challenge by birdying eight of his last nine holes.
Despite starting the day with a four-shot lead and extending it to six shots during the final round, Bhatia found himself tied with McCarthy at 20 under after 72 holes.
However, Bhatia emerged victorious with a birdie on the first extra hole during the playoff, securing the Valero Texas Open title.