Aaron Rai Makes History as the First English Player in Over a Century to Win the PGA Championship
NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. — Aaron Rai made history on Sunday as he became the first English-born golfer in over a century to win the prestigious PGA Championship, showcasing remarkable skill and composure throughout the final round at Aronimink Golf Club.
Starting three strokes behind at the turn, Rai executed a performance befitting a major champion. His pivotal moment came when he sank a stunning 40-foot eagle putt on the par-5 ninth hole, initiating a streak where he one-putted seven consecutive greens to take the lead.
On the critical closing holes, Rai further solidified his position by making a birdie putt of approximately 70 feet across the 17th green, a definitive move that clinched his victory. The 31-year-old, who is of Indian heritage, finished the tournament with a score of 5-under 65, concluding at nine-under 271 overall.
Prominent contenders, including Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele, faltered under the pressure. McIlroy, who finished with a 69, struggled on the reachable par-4 13th hole and managed even par on the par fives during the week.
Rai’s achievement marks a significant milestone for English golf, as he is the first player to have his name inscribed on the Wanamaker Trophy since Jim Barnes in 1919, the second edition of this major and the first post-World War I.
Rai’s victory came with a three-stroke margin over 54-hole leader Alex Smalley and Rahm, who recently transitioned to LIV Golf. Rahm’s chances were hindered by two bogeys on the front nine and a solitary birdie on the back for a final score of 68.
Smalley lost his lead with a double bogey on the sixth hole, and despite showing promise later in the round, he was unable to challenge Rai, who had already set his sights on the Wanamaker Trophy.
Justin Thomas also made a late push, shooting a 65 and finishing just one stroke behind the lead as Rai maintained control in the challenging conditions of Aronimink.
Emerging from a tightly contested field where 22 players were within four strokes of the lead entering the final round—a PGA Championship record—Rai’s background includes one PGA Tour title and three on the European Tour, alongside no prior top-15 finishes in major events.
Despite being lesser-known to casual fans, Rai is respected among his peers for his humility. Rory McIlroy praised him, stating, “You won’t find one person on property who’s not happy for him.” Xander Schauffele echoed these sentiments, calling him an “all-world gentleman.”
Rai’s distinctive style includes wearing two gloves, a necessity he adopted as a child in England to combat the cold during practice. He also retains plastic covers on his irons, a tribute to his upbringing and the sacrifices of his father, who ensured he had quality equipment.
With this victory, Rai not only claimed the Wanamaker Trophy but also a significant place in golfing history.
