Akshay Bhatia's impressive birdies secure his lead at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, despite challenging winds. The Associated Press reports on the thrilling third round, where Bhatia's early birdies set the tone for a strong performance. With six birdies in seven holes, Bhatia maintained a 4-under 68 score, giving him a two-shot lead. However, the final round promises even more excitement as weather conditions are expected to worsen, with strong winds and rain. Collin Morikawa, a two-time major champion, also made a remarkable comeback, shooting 11 birdies for a 62 score, propelling him up the leaderboard. The competition is fierce, with several players, including Jake Knapp and Sepp Straka, tied for second place. The article highlights the unpredictable nature of Pebble Beach, where wind can significantly impact performance. Despite the challenges, Bhatia's consistent birdies and Morikawa's impressive round keep the race close. The story also mentions the entertainment value of the event, even without the traditional 'Celebrity Saturday' atmosphere. Additionally, it showcases the struggles of defending champion Rory McIlroy, who faced setbacks due to his poor shot selection. Scottie Scheffler, aiming for his 18th top 10 finish, is eight shots behind the leader. The final round's prelude features dramatic moments, such as Jacob Bridgeman's beachside shot and Min Woo Lee's challenging putt. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of adaptability and focus in such unpredictable conditions, leaving readers eager to see how the final round unfolds.
