Famous holes-in-one have occurred throughout golf history, often during high-profile tournaments or by notable players. Here are some memorable ones:
1. Tiger Woods (1997 Phoenix Open)
Tiger Woods' hole-in-one on the 16th hole at the Phoenix Open is one of the most famous in golf history. The 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale is known for its rowdy crowds, and Woods' ace caused an eruption of excitement from the spectators.
2. Gene Sarazen (1935 Masters)
Gene Sarazen's double eagle, often referred to as "the shot heard 'round the world," was technically not a hole-in-one but a double eagle (albatross). However, it's one of the most famous shots in golf history. Sarazen holed his 4-wood from 235 yards on the par-5 15th hole, helping him win the tournament.
3. Tom Watson (1980 British Open)
Tom Watson's hole-in-one on the 6th hole at Muirfield during the third round of the 1980 British Open is another iconic moment. Watson went on to win the tournament, securing his third Open Championship.
4. Rory McIlroy (2015 Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship)
Rory McIlroy made a memorable hole-in-one on the 15th hole during the second round of the 2015 Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship. It was McIlroy's first hole-in-one as a professional golfer.
5. Justin Thomas (2016 Players Championship)
Justin Thomas made a spectacular hole-in-one on the famous 13th hole at TPC Sawgrass during the 2016 Players Championship. The 13th hole is one of the most challenging par-3s on the PGA Tour.
6. Francesco Molinari (2019 Arnold Palmer Invitational)
Francesco Molinari's hole-in-one on the 7th hole at Bay Hill during the 2019 Arnold Palmer Invitational helped him secure a final round of 64 and ultimately win the tournament.
7. Seve Ballesteros (1986 Masters)
Seve Ballesteros made an unforgettable hole-in-one on the 6th hole at Augusta National during the 1986 Masters. Ballesteros is remembered as one of the most charismatic and talented golfers in history.
8. Ernie Els (1994 Dubai Desert Classic)
Ernie Els made an ace on the par-4 17th hole at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club during the 1994 Dubai Desert Classic, marking one of the few times a hole-in-one has been recorded on a par-4.
These are just a few examples of famous holes-in-one, but there have been many others throughout the history of golf.