Photo: Richard Heathcote / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
Aaron Rai made history by winning the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club on Sunday (May 17), becoming the first Englishman to claim the title in over a century. Rai finished with a score of nine under par, three strokes ahead of his closest competitors, Jon Rahm and Alex Smalley.
The tournament, held in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, featured challenging pin locations and a tightly packed leaderboard. Rai's victory was marked by his exceptional performance over the last 10 holes, where he made six birdies, including a memorable 68-foot putt on the 17th hole. His win is significant as he is also the first player of Indian descent to win a men's major championship.
Rai's journey to this moment began in Wolverhampton, England, where he was introduced to golf by accident. His parents, Dalvir and Amrik, supported his passion, leading him to become a junior golf sensation. Rai's unique habits, such as wearing two gloves and using iron covers, have become his trademarks.
The win at Aronimink adds to Rai's growing list of accomplishments, which includes a victory at the Wyndham Championship. His triumph is expected to generate $200 million for the local economy, according to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.
Rai's victory at the PGA Championship grants him a five-year exemption on the PGA Tour and entry into the Masters, U.S. Open, and British Open. As Rai celebrated his win, fellow golfers like Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele praised his humility and skill.
As reported by the Associated Press, Rai's win marks a significant moment in golf history, as he joins the ranks of major champions who have overcome long odds to achieve victory.