Collin Morikawa Speaks Out After Heartbreaking Bay Hill Defeat

Collin Morikawa Speaks Out After Heartbreaking Bay Hill Defeat

By Michael Thompson

March 11, 2025 at 08:47 AM

Collin Morikawa suffered a heartbreaking defeat at the 2024 Arnold Palmer Invitational, surrendering his lead in dramatic fashion to Russell Henley on Sunday.

![Collin Morikawa reacts shortly before a tough loss at the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational.](Keyur Khamar/PGA TOUR via Getty Images)

After shooting an impressive five-under 67 in challenging Saturday conditions, Morikawa held the 54-hole lead. The potential victory, worth $4 million, would have marked his first win since late 2023.

The turning point came at Bay Hill's 16th hole, where Henley chipped in for eagle while Morikawa managed only a par. This two-shot swing gave Henley the lead, which he maintained through the final holes to secure the win.

Following the loss, Morikawa initially avoided media interaction but later shared his thoughts on Instagram: "No excuses. Never had any, but always a nice reminder. Honestly though, this one stings."

This marks Morikawa's second runner-up finish this season, following his second-place showing at the season-opening Sentry. Despite earning $2.2 million at Bay Hill and $2.16 million at the Sentry, the two-time major champion is clearly focused on returning to the winner's circle.

Morikawa's next opportunity comes at this week's Players Championship, which offers the largest winner's purse in golf at $4.5 million.

A post shared by Collin Morikawa (@collin_morikawa)

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