Michael Block
By Arthur Weinstein on

Some day, if they make a movie about Michael Block’s life, one of the most emotional scenes will be a shot he hit Sunday at Oak Hill.

The 46-year-old club pro beat the odds to make the 105th PGA Championship, yet he’s played like he’s been on tour for years, as his tee shot on the par-3 No. 15 showed.

As Block’s seven-iron shot sailed straight for the hole, CBS announcer Jim Nantz solemnly intoned, “The fairy-tale story …” Then, as the ball dropped straight in the cup for a hole-in-one, Nantz finished his thought “… gets better!”

It is certainly the most stunning shot of Block’s stunning run through one of golf’s prestigious majors, but he’s had quite a few outstanding shots. With three straight even-par 70s, Block entered Sunday’s final round tied for eighth on the leaderboard.

“To say least, I’m living a dream,’’ Block told CBS Saturday. “My life feels like it’s changed a little bit. I’m still on Cloud Nine, just having a good time.’’

It’s a great Cinderella story from a regular old club pro — at a public course, no less.

With his final round 71 and top-15 tournament finish, Block earned an automatic exemption to play in the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla in Louisville, Kentucky.

Golf fans on Twitter loved Block’s incredible ace, and his great underdog story.


[CBS Sports; Photo Credit: CBS]

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.

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