SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Emiliano Grillo ignited a lively celebration at the Phoenix Open with an impressive hole-in-one on the iconic 16th hole, measuring 155 yards.


During the second round of the tournament, Grillo’s well-placed shot soared into the hole, making a few revolutions before settling in, much to the delight of the gathered crowd. The excitement prompted a euphoric reaction from fans on the bustling party barge that is characteristic of this par-3 hole.


“It was perfect. Perfect number, just a full shot, pitching wedge,” Grillo remarked to Golf Channel as he approached the green. He explained the delayed reaction, noting the distance from which the shot was made, but emphasized the overwhelming cheers from the spectators.


After witnessing his ball drop into the cup, the Argentinian golfer celebrated by lifting his arms in triumph and engaging in a chest bump with fellow competitor Rafael Campos. Grillo didn’t hold back on the high-fives, making his way through the throng of excited fans at the tee.


The jubilant atmosphere reached its peak as fans in the jam-packed, multi-tiered grandstands showered beer and other beverages in celebration, creating quite a spectacle of mess on the course. Tournament organizers were left to tidy up the aftermath, which included combing through bunkers and inspecting the green for any potential damage, causing a delay for the next group of players.


Grillo’s ace marked the 12th occasion of a hole-in-one at the Phoenix Open’s 16th hole, breaking a lengthy drought since the last ones made by Sam Ryder and Carlos Ortiz in 2022. The most memorable hole-in-one at this location was executed by Tiger Woods in 1997, which is widely credited with kickstarting the raucous party atmosphere seen at the Phoenix Open today.