Just one day before the official start of the Masters at Augusta National, the stars of golf paused serious competition to enjoy a day filled with tenderness, laughter, and unforgettable memories with their families. The traditional Par 3 Contest-one of the tournament’s most beloved events-brought together players, spouses, and children in a relaxed atmosphere where flawless swings mingled with hugs and playful antics.
Since 1960, this pre-Masters tradition has allowed pros to enjoy the game alongside their loved ones, with makeshift caddies and unscripted scenes. Jordan Spieth, the 2015 champion, opened the festivities with a touching gesture: his young son Sammy took the first shot on his behalf. It wasn’t a long drive, but it was symbolic enough to earn applause and smiles from the crowd. Later, his daughter Sophie created a lighthearted moment when she tried to eat grass while walking the course, prompting a gentle, mic-captured scolding from her father.
The Masters’ Most Viral Moment
One of the day’s most talked-about highlights came courtesy of golf legend Gary Player, who at 89 years old-put his club aside for a few moments to dance on the first hole, proving that a love for golf can be expressed with pure joy. Elsewhere on the course, stars like Scottie Scheffler, Jason Day, Max Homa, Justin Thomas, and Keegan Bradley shared the fairways with their young children, who gave putting and swinging a try-with more than one amusing tumble.
Keegan Bradley combined fun and skill by landing a spectacular hole in one, which he celebrated instantly with his family. Max Homa, meanwhile, laughed as he recalled asking Wyndham Clark to bring a child’s putter to Georgia for him, since he’d run out of room in his luggage. Moments like these show how the Par 3 Contest transcends the professional game-it’s a family celebration grounded in tradition.
Curse or coincidence?
Despite the joyful setting, the Par 3 Contest carries a peculiar “curse”: no winner of the event has ever gone on to win the Masters in the same year. Rickie Fowler, for example, won the Par 3 in 2023 and finished tied for 30th in the main tournament. Justin Thomas joked that he’s never submitted a scorecard for the event-possibly to avoid tempting fate. When asked about the golf skills of Scheffler’s wife, Thomas deflected with a grin: “Next question.”
The week also featured the traditional Masters Champions Dinner, hosted by defending champion Scottie Scheffler. Staying true to his Texas roots, Scheffler chose a boldly flavored menu: spicy chili topped with cheddar and jalapeños, firecracker shrimp, meatball-and-ravioli bites, and warm chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Though Tiger Woods was absent due to injury, the evening was filled with laughter, stories, and tributes to Augusta’s most iconic figures.
Far from the pressure of pinpoint shots and major stakes, the Par 3 Contest once again reminded fans of golf’s most human side. Kids ran across the course, parents shared laughs, and legends danced. Every moment of the day felt like a heartfelt celebration of sport and family. Now, with clubs sharpened and spirits lifted, the real battle for the coveted green jacket begins.
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