Aaron Rai Wins Masters Par 3 Contest with Hole-in-One

Tommy Fleetwood and Kevin Hart also steal the show in annual pre-tournament event

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:53pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic energy and celebratory atmosphere of the Masters Par 3 Contest, with golfers and caddies in motion but faces and logos dissolved into unrecognizable splatters.The Masters Par 3 Contest erupts with a vibrant display of athletic skill, celebrity involvement, and community spirit.Augusta Today

The 2026 Masters Par 3 Contest was a star-studded affair, with Aaron Rai emerging victorious after sinking a hole-in-one. Tommy Fleetwood also made headlines with his own ace, while comedian Kevin Hart made his caddie debut alongside Bryson DeChambeau. The event featured a mix of golf legends, celebrities, and family members, adding a unique blend of sportsmanship and entertainment to the annual tradition.

Why it matters

The Masters Par 3 Contest is a beloved pre-tournament event that offers a more relaxed and playful atmosphere compared to the main tournament. This year's contest featured several memorable moments that captured the public's attention, generating excitement and anticipation for the upcoming Masters tournament.

The details

Aaron Rai's victory was highlighted by a hole-in-one, while Tommy Fleetwood also made a hole-in-one playing alongside Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry. Comedian Kevin Hart made his caddie debut, joining Bryson DeChambeau on the course and drawing praise for his rapid progress in the sport. Other notable moments included Jason Kelce, brother of Super Bowl-winning star Travis Kelce, serving as Akshay Bhatia's caddie, and Mark O'Meara winning the nearest-the-pin challenge on the first and ninth holes.

  • On April 8, 2026, the annual Masters Par 3 Contest was held at Augusta National Golf Club.
  • Tommy Fleetwood made a hole-in-one at the fourth hole during the contest.
  • Kevin Hart made his caddie debut, joining Bryson DeChambeau on the course.

The players

Aaron Rai

The winner of the 2026 Masters Par 3 Contest, Rai sank a hole-in-one during the event.

Tommy Fleetwood

A professional golfer who made a hole-in-one at the fourth hole during the 2026 Masters Par 3 Contest.

Kevin Hart

A comedian who made his caddie debut, joining Bryson DeChambeau on the course during the 2026 Masters Par 3 Contest.

Rory McIlroy

A professional golfer who played alongside Tommy Fleetwood during the 2026 Masters Par 3 Contest.

Shane Lowry

A professional golfer who played alongside Tommy Fleetwood during the 2026 Masters Par 3 Contest.

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What they’re saying

“Kevin's dedication to the sport has been impressive. He's made rapid progress in a high-level game.”

— Bryson DeChambeau, Professional Golfer

What’s next

The 2026 Masters tournament will begin on April 10, following the conclusion of the Par 3 Contest. Fans and media will be eagerly anticipating the main event, hoping to see more memorable moments and unexpected performances from the players.

The takeaway

The 2026 Masters Par 3 Contest was a celebration of golf's unique blend of sportsmanship and entertainment. The event featured a mix of golf legends, celebrities, and family members, creating a warm and lighthearted atmosphere that captivated the audience. The memorable moments, such as Aaron Rai's hole-in-one, Tommy Fleetwood's ace, and Kevin Hart's caddie debut, have set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable Masters tournament.