Akshay Bhatia withdraws from Valspar Championship in Florida

Akshay Bhatia has pulled out of the Valspar Championship, which is taking place this week at the Innisbrook Resort's Copperhead Course in Palm Harbor, Florida. The 23-year-old golfer did not provide a reason for his withdrawal. Bhatia recently tied for third place at the Players Championship, just two shots behind the winner, Rory McIlroy. McIlroy secured his victory after a playoff against J.J. Spaun. By skipping the Valspar Championship, Bhatia avoids playing in six events over a span of seven weeks. He will also miss next week's Texas Children's Houston Open. However, he is expected to return to defend his title at the Valero Texas Open the following week, just before the Masters tournament begins on April 10. Bhatia has made history as the first participant from the Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals at Augusta National to play in the Masters. He had his debut at Augusta as a 12-year-old in 2014.