Difficult Start for Top-Ranked Player

Akshay Bhatia, the top-ranked player in the field and recent winner of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, experienced a challenging first round at the Hero Indian Open on Thursday. Bhatia carded a 77 (+5) at the DLF Golf and Country Club in Delhi, putting him well behind the leaders.

The round included an early out-of-bounds shot on the first hole and a triple bogey on the 15th, contributing to an 8-over front nine score of 44.

Bhatia’s Perspective on a Tough Course

At least I didn’t shoot 80,” Bhatia said with a self-deprecating smile. It’s a wild golf course. It’s very hard, very narrow and not a lot of scorable holes.”

Akshay Bhatia, via Golfweek

Despite the difficult start, Bhatia showed resilience on the back nine, recording three birdies. He acknowledged the challenging nature of the course, describing it as very hard, very narrow and not a lot of scorable holes..

Long-Awaited Debut in India

This marks Bhatia’s competitive debut in India, a moment he has been anticipating since 2019 when he initially signed a contract to compete in the tournament. The 2020 event was canceled due to COVID-19.

Bhatia, a Hero brand ambassador, is ranked No. 22 in the Official World Golf Ranking. He is one of the hottest golfers currently, having finished T-16 or better in his last five worldwide starts.

Tournament Details

The Hero Indian Open, a DP World Tour event, is being held from March 26-29, 2026, at the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram. The tournament also features Francesco Molinari and defending champion Eugenio Chacarra.

FAQ

• What is Akshay Bhatia’s current world ranking? He is currently ranked No. 22.
• Where is the Hero Indian Open being held? At the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram, India.
• When did Bhatia first plan to compete in the Hero Indian Open? In 2019, but the 2020 tournament was canceled.