Gamecock Golfer Makes Masters Cut After Becoming a Dad

Brett Quigley achieved the career milestone just hours after welcoming a new child.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:46pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a golfer's swing broken down into overlapping planes of green, blue, and ochre, conceptually representing the personal and athletic achievements of a new father competing at the Masters tournament.A new father's emotional Masters debut showcases the personal triumphs that can elevate an athlete's performance.Augusta Today

Brett Quigley, a former University of South Carolina golfer, made the cut at the Masters tournament in Augusta, Georgia, just hours after his wife gave birth to their child. Quigley was on the 12th hole when he received the news of his newborn, providing an emotional boost that helped him secure a spot in the weekend rounds of the prestigious golf event.

Why it matters

Making the Masters cut is a significant achievement for any professional golfer, and doing so shortly after becoming a new parent adds an inspiring personal element to Quigley's story. The University of South Carolina has a proud tradition in men's golf, and Quigley's success helps shine a spotlight on the program.

The details

Quigley, a 45-year-old PGA Tour veteran, was playing the opening round of the Masters when he received a call from his wife informing him that she had just given birth to their child. Buoyed by the news, Quigley went on to shoot a 2-under-par 70, putting him in position to make the 36-hole cut. He ultimately finished the tournament at 1-under par, securing his spot in the weekend rounds.

  • Quigley's wife gave birth to their child just hours before his opening round at the Masters on April 4, 2026.
  • Quigley received the news of the birth while playing the 12th hole during his first round.
  • Quigley made the 36-hole cut at the Masters, which was held from April 4-7, 2026.

The players

Brett Quigley

A 45-year-old professional golfer who played college golf at the University of South Carolina and is now competing on the PGA Tour.

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What they’re saying

“It was such an incredible feeling to get that call from my wife. I knew I had to dig deep and finish strong to make the cut, and I'm so proud to have done it.”

— Brett Quigley, PGA Tour Golfer

What’s next

Quigley will look to continue his strong play over the weekend rounds of the Masters as he aims for his first major championship victory.

The takeaway

Quigley's inspiring performance at the Masters, achieved just hours after becoming a new father, demonstrates the power of personal milestones to fuel athletic success. His story highlights the University of South Carolina's proud golf tradition and the resilience of professional athletes who can balance family life with the demands of elite competition.