Rickie Fowler hit a $1 million hole-in-one for Ernie Els’ autism foundation

Rickie Fowler has hit a lot of important golf shots that helped him earn millions of dollars during his career. But the most rewarding shot of his life may have come Monday when he made an ace at a charity event to earn $1 million for autism research.

Each year, Ernie Els and his Els for Autism Foundation host a pro-am to raise support for the foundation and the Els Center of Excellence. The cause is an important one for Els and his wife Liezl, who have an autistic son Ben. On the line this year was a $1 million donation if anyone could make a hole-in-one.

Fowler came through.

The celebration was one of the best you’ll see in sports this year. Els was so excited, he gave Fowler a huge bear hug and lifted him off the ground.

While Ernie hoisted Fowler off the ground, his wife Liezl was moved to tears.

Such an incredible scene, and one that goes well beyond the course and could impact so many lives. As if the shot was not impressive enough, the background behind it only adds to the story. According to Golf Channel’s Tim Rosaforte, Fowler had already changed out of his golf shoes and stepped to the tee wearing sneakers. He also had to borrow a club and one-hopped the ace from 113 yards using Luke Donald’s pitching wedge.

What a shot. What a scene. And all for a great cause.