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‘Bit of disbelief’: Pro’s ‘toed’ tee shot results in perfection — and $160,000 bonus

New Zealand pro Daniel Hillier has made some memorable swings in his career. But a shot he hit at the Spanish Open might trump them all.

By Jessica Marksbury · Golf

Published: Friday, 9 October 2026 at 2:07 PM

Key Things to Know

Daniel Hillier hit a hole-in-one on the 17th hole at the Spanish Open despite striking the tee shot off the toe.
Hillier won a BMW iX5 SUV valued at approximately $160,000 as a sponsor bonus for the ace.
The ace contributed to an opening round of four-under 67 for the New Zealand professional golfer.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Daniel Hillier made a hole-in-one on the par-3 17th hole during the first round of the Spanish Open, earning a BMW iX5 SUV valued at nearly $160,000. Hillier admitted he mis-hit the tee shot off the toe of his club, but the ball held its line and dropped in for his fifth career ace at Club de Campo Villa de Madrid.

The ace helped the 28-year-old New Zealander post an opening four-under-par 67. Hillier reached five under during Friday's second round, leaving him four shots behind clubhouse leader Grant Forrest.

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‘Bit of disbelief’: Pro’s ‘toed’ tee shot results in perfection — and $160,000 bonus

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