Augusta, Georgia was buzzing with excitement on the eve of golf’s most celebrated tournament as the annual Masters Par 3 Contest unfolded in its signature blend of spectacle, tradition, and family fun. This year’s event, held on April 8 local time (April 9 in Korea), delivered more than just dazzling shots—it brought together sports icons, celebrities, and their loved ones for a day that was as much about camaraderie as competition.
Perhaps the most eye-catching pairing of the afternoon was Korean golfer Im Sung-jae and his one-day caddie, acclaimed actor Song Joong-ki. The 41-year-old Song, known as much for his roles on screen as for his passion for golf, donned the Masters’ iconic white jumpsuit and green cap, taking up caddie duties for Im across the nine picturesque Par 3 holes at Augusta National Golf Club. As Song strode the fairways, handed clubs, and raked bunkers, he did more than just play the part—he became a highlight of the event, drawing cheers from fans and respect from players alike.
“How do you even play in front of so many spectators? I gained a whole new respect for Im Sung-jae today,” Song remarked after the round, reflecting on his unique experience. That awe was hard-earned: on the final 9th hole, Im handed Song a 9-iron for the ceremonial tee shot. Song, after a careful practice swing, sent the ball soaring over the water hazard, landing safely in the left rough near the gallery. The crowd roared with delight, and Song’s nerves were evident as he later joked, “I can’t even remember how I hit that tee shot. Im plays in front of these crowds all the time—he’s amazing.”
Song’s friendship with Im goes back to 2021, when they met through a mutual acquaintance. The bond deepened over the years, with Song attending Im’s wedding in 2022. Their chemistry was on full display throughout the contest, with Im praising Song’s efforts: “Song did really well today. He made a great putt and his tee shot was pretty good too. People keep asking me to shoot 17 under par in the main tournament—if I do that, I’d win! But I’ll just try my best,” Im said with a laugh.
This year’s Par 3 Contest was packed with star power and lighthearted moments. Bryson DeChambeau, one of the sport’s biggest personalities, played alongside Im in a randomly assigned group. DeChambeau’s caddie for the day? None other than American comedian Kevin Hart. The pair’s antics kept the crowd entertained, with laughter and applause following their every move. Song noted, “DeChambeau and Hart really made our group’s atmosphere fantastic. I even learned how to rake a bunker from Im’s regular caddie!”
The Masters Par 3 Contest, a tradition since 1960, is renowned for its relaxed, family-centric spirit. Unlike the pressure-cooker environment of the main tournament, the Par 3 is a festival of golf, where players invite family or friends to caddie and even take a few shots themselves. It’s not uncommon to see children, spouses, and celebrities sharing the fairways. This year, world number one Scottie Scheffler and defending champion Rory McIlroy walked the course with their children, adding to the event’s festive vibe. According to Scheffler, “Major championships can be stressful, but moments like these help keep things in balance.”
The contest was not short on drama or skill. England’s Aaron Rai emerged as the winner, carding a superb 6-under-par 21 after making back-to-back birdies on the final two holes. Rai, whose family joined him for the round, was characteristically humble in victory. “I’m not sure if winning this is a good thing,” he admitted, referencing the famous Masters jinx—no Par 3 Contest winner has ever gone on to win the main tournament in the same year. “But it was wonderful to share this experience with my family.”
Rai’s win was just part of a day filled with memorable moments. The contest saw four hole-in-ones: Keegan Bradley aced the 8th hole for the second consecutive year, while Justin Thomas, Wyndham Clark, and Tommy Fleetwood also found the bottom of the cup in one. The gallery was treated to a spectacle of skill and showmanship, with players and caddies alike joining in the fun.
Korean golfer Kim Si-woo added another family twist to the proceedings, playing alongside his wife, professional golfer Oh Ji-hyun, herself a seven-time winner on the KLPGA Tour. The sight of couples and families enjoying Augusta’s storied course was a testament to the event’s enduring charm.
Song Joong-ki’s appearance as Im’s caddie was more than a celebrity cameo. A dedicated golf enthusiast who typically shoots in the mid-80s to mid-90s, Song has served as a global ambassador for the R&A since February 2025. His involvement brought a fresh spotlight to Korean golf and underscored the growing international appeal of the Masters’ traditions.
As the sun set over Augusta, the Par 3 Contest once again proved why it’s a fan favorite—a blend of tradition, laughter, and unforgettable moments. The players, now relaxed and ready, turned their attention to the main event. The Masters tournament would begin the next day, with the world watching to see who would don the coveted green jacket.
For Im Sung-jae and Song Joong-ki, the day was about more than scores. It was a celebration of friendship, sportsmanship, and the unique magic that only Augusta can deliver. As Song put it, “It was an amazing day. I’ll never forget what it’s like to be out here with so many fans, sharing this with Im. He’s truly remarkable.”
With the Par 3 festivities in the books, Augusta’s hallowed fairways are now set for the real battle—a 72-hole test where legends are made and dreams are realized. But for those who witnessed the joy and spectacle of the Par 3 Contest, the memories will linger long after the final putt drops.