Blurb
Aaron Rai sits tied for 10th at the 90th Masters after a 71, while Akshay Bhatia trails at one-over in a competitive opening round.
Augusta
Indo-British golfer Aaron Rai delivered an electric opening performance at the 90th Masters, briefly surging into the top three before finishing the first day tied for 10th place. Rai ignited his round with three birdies in the first four holes at Augusta National, eventually signing for a one-under-par 71.
The leaderboard is currently topped by defending champion Rory McIlroy and American Sam Burns, who both fired impressive five-under 67s. Rai remains well within striking distance, trailing the co-leaders by just four strokes as the tournament heads into the second round.
Meanwhile, three-time PGA Tour winner Akshay Bhatia experienced a turbulent back nine. Despite a steady start, the Indian-American pro carded three bogeys and a double bogey after the turn, finishing with a one-over 73. Bhatia currently sits tied for 33rd place in the star-studded field.
The prestigious tournament continues through the weekend, with both Rai and Bhatia looking to climb the rankings at the year’s first major. For Rai, maintaining the “fearless” early momentum that saw him dominate the opening holes will be key to challenging the leaders. Lucknow’s own fans and the wider Indian golf community are watching closely as these two talents navigate the challenging “Amen Corner” at Augusta.
