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.
Rickie Fowler hit a $1 million hole-in-one for Ernie Els’ autism foundation
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.
@sghiggo9 this happens when u r Ricky Fowler and you just hit a hole in one and won a $1 million for Els for Autism. pic.twitter.com/pTnlskAuKV
— shawn higgins (@sghiggo9) March 7, 2016
@ElsForAutism moment of stunning excitement as @RickieFowler holes in one for $1million @GettySport fabulous moment! pic.twitter.com/rhQUhEE0gn
— David Cannon (@Cannonball63) March 7, 2016
Will always remember this moment. Great support once again from pros. #humbled still can't believe it! #iwasthere pic.twitter.com/LUWOn0kowt
— Ernie Els (@TheBig_Easy) March 7, 2016
Rickie Fowler just won $1 million for @ElsForAutism at the Cigar Aficionado / Wine Spectator ProAm! pic.twitter.com/H5Aam4uE2j
— Cigar Aficionado (@CigarAficMag) March 7, 2016
While Ernie hoisted Fowler off the ground, his wife Liezl was moved to tears.
@RickieFowler jars it on 19th hole at Old Palm. $1mil goes to @ElsForAutism. Ernie carries off Rickie. Liezel sobbing. More on @GolfCentral.
— Tim Rosaforte (@TimRosaforte) March 7, 2016
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.
