Frankie Fleetwood Nearly Clears Ike's Pond at Masters Par 3

At Augusta National Golf Club, eight-year-old Frankie Fleetwood captivated the crowd during Wednesday's Par 3 Contest, attempting once again to clear Ike's Pond on the ninth hole, just one day before the 89th Masters Tournament began. The young son of English golfer Tommy Fleetwood came agonizingly close on his second shot, missing the green by mere inches after his first attempt splashed into the water, drawing cheers and chants from spectators packed around the hole.

The Par 3 Contest, a lighthearted tradition where players often include family members, saw Frankie step up to the 120-yard tee under intense anticipation. Last year, the then-seven-year-old went viral for his candid interview about failing to clear the pond despite diligent practice, endearing him to fans. This time, as the crowd urged him on and granted a mulligan, Frankie made solid contact on his retry. "Nearly got it. A few inches, maybe," he said afterward, displaying poise beyond his years. He paused to thank the supporters, adding, "I'd like to thank everyone right now. I don't know their names." Tommy, watching nearby, beamed with pride and joked about returning next year. "He was happy with his shots,...