Golf is a game of focus and precision, and while most touring pros require nerves of steel to get the job done – sometimes, a little fun can inspire some magic on the course. This is exactly what happened to Daniel Hillier in Australian BMW PGA Championship.
Hillier, who was one of the leaders going down the stretch, was standing on the green of the par-3 17th hole staring down a fearsome 10-foot putt to stay at 12 and keep himself in contention. As he read his shot, fans in the surrounding seats began singing Neil Diamond’s, Sweet Carolina.
What started as a simple cheer turned into a roar as Hillier threw his hands in the air and joined the crowd, punching the air as he led and sang along.
His easy-going demeanor, along with the general atmosphere, seemed to ease the tension surrounding the decisive blow he faced. Hillier resumed his pre-shot routine as the crowd continued to belt out the lyrics. As he walked up to the ball and stared down the hole, the fans fell silent, waiting to see if he would sink the putt.
He made a smooth shot and as the ball dropped into the cup, the crowd erupted. Hillier tossed the ball into the stands and walked off the green with a big smile.
After all, it was David Puig of Fireballs GC who claimed the BMW Australian PGA Championship title. But Hillier undeniably won over fans with a performance that was “so good, so good”.
While the Australian PGA Championship brought dramatic swings and brilliant flashes, Hillier’s “Sweet Carolina” The moment will likely remain one of the most memorable moments of the tournament for those who witnessed it during the final round.
