Rickie Fowler made an incredible ace to raise $1 million for autism

Rickie Fowler hit one of the most important shots of his life on Monday.

Fowler, along with several PGA Tour players and celebrities, took part in the annual Ernie Els for Autism event at Old Palm Golf Club in Florida.

After the 18-hole round, there was a 19th hole challenge. If any player could make a 111-yard shot, that would trigger a $ 1 million donation to support Els for Autism programs and education.

Lots of players tried, a few came close, but none had made the ace when Fowler stepped up.

@RickieFowler jars it on 19th hole at Old Palm. $ 1mil goes to @ElsForAutism. Ernie carries off Rickie. Liezel sobbing. More on @GolfCentral.

— Tim Rosaforte (@TimRosaforte) March 7, 2016

More @ElsForAutism $ 1 million ace: @RickieFowler changed out of golf shoes. Hit shot in sneakers. Used @LukeDonald PW. 1 hop from 111 yards.

— Tim Rosaforte (@TimRosaforte) March 7, 2016

Afterward, Els lauded Fowler for what he accomplished, saying, “This man is my hero.”

@TimRosaforte @RickieFowler @ElsForAutism @GolfCentral #epic #lotsofzeros pic.twitter.com/RDRFwUJZxw

— Chris Herrick (@ChrisHerrick152) March 7, 2016

Ryan Ballengee is a Yahoo Sports contributor. Find him on Facebook and Twitter.

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