Rickie Fowler's Ace Bid Foiled by Unyielding Flagstick at RBC Heritage

The popular PGA Tour pro narrowly missed a hole-in-one on the 14th hole, settling for a birdie instead.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:50pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting Rickie Fowler's golf shot on the 14th hole at the RBC Heritage, with the ball's trajectory and the golf course elements broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors.Rickie Fowler's near-ace at the RBC Heritage showcases the thrilling unpredictability of golf, as a perfect shot is foiled by an unyielding flagstick.Hilton Head Island Today

Rickie Fowler, one of the most recognizable players on the PGA Tour, nearly aced the 172-yard par-3 14th hole during the second round of the RBC Heritage tournament in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Fowler's shot landed just on the green, took three bounces, and rolled straight toward the cup, but ultimately hit the flagstick and gently rolled away, leaving him with a birdie instead of the elusive ace.

Why it matters

Fowler's near-ace was a highlight-reel moment that showcased his skill and entertained golf fans. Though he didn't get the hole-in-one, the incident demonstrated Fowler's continued popularity and ability to produce exciting shots, even as he seeks his first major championship victory.

The details

Fowler's shot on the 172-yard 14th hole at Harbour Town Golf Links was nearly perfect, landing just on the green and rolling straight toward the cup. However, the ball struck the flagstick, preventing it from dropping for an ace. Fowler settled for a birdie, leaving him tied for eighth place at 8-under par, one shot behind the leaders.

  • Fowler's near-ace occurred during the second round of the RBC Heritage tournament on Friday, April 17, 2026.
  • The RBC Heritage continues with the third round on Saturday, April 18 and the fourth round on Sunday, April 19.

The players

Rickie Fowler

A 37-year-old professional golfer on the PGA Tour, known for his engaging personality, bold fashion choices, and six career PGA victories. Fowler has never won a major championship, but has finished second twice.

Patrick Cantlay

One of the co-leaders of the RBC Heritage tournament, sitting at 9-under par after the second round.

Matthew Fitzpatrick

The current leader of the RBC Heritage tournament, sitting at 14-under par after the second round.

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What they’re saying

“That was as close as you can get to a hole-in-one without actually making it. Rickie's shot was just incredible to watch.”

— Kevin Kisner, NBC Golf Analyst

What’s next

The RBC Heritage tournament will continue with the third round on Saturday, April 18 and the final round on Sunday, April 19. Rickie Fowler will look to make a push for his first career major championship victory, while Patrick Cantlay and Matthew Fitzpatrick will aim to hold onto their leads.

The takeaway

Rickie Fowler's near-ace at the RBC Heritage was a thrilling moment that showcased his skill and entertained golf fans, even though he ultimately had to settle for a birdie. The incident underscores Fowler's continued popularity on the PGA Tour and his ongoing quest for his first major championship title.