Aaron Rai, hailing from England, clinched victory at the 2026 PGA Championship held at Aronimink Golf Club with an impressive final round performance. Rai, a native of Wombourne, Staffordshire, secured his first major title in Pennsylvania by shooting a remarkable 65, finishing at -9 over the four-day tournament.
After sinking a par putt on the 18th hole, Rai shared a heartfelt moment with his caddie, Jason Timmis, followed by an embrace with his wife, Gaurika Bishnoi. The 31-year-old then posed for photos with his scorecard before returning to the course with his wife.
Despite players like Alex Smalley, Jon Rahm, and Matti Schmid still completing their rounds behind Rai, his commanding lead assured his victory even before the final players reached the 18th hole. Rai, ranked 44th in the PGA world rankings, delivered a stellar performance on the back-nine, outshining renowned players like Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm.
Starting the final 18 holes two shots behind leader Alex Smalley, Rai capitalized on his competitors’ struggles, ultimately claiming the Wanamaker Trophy in Pennsylvania. Notably, an eagle and an astonishing six birdies propelled him to overcome the initial deficit.
A standout moment occurred on the 17th hole when Rai sunk a remarkable 30-foot putt while Schmid faced a bogey on the 15th. Rai’s triumph makes him the first Englishman to win the PGA Championship since Jim Barnes in 1919.
Amidst the final group’s completion of their rounds, Rai exuded joy in the Aronimink clubhouse. Subsequently, he returned to the course to lift the Wanamaker Trophy after Schmid and Smalley finished their rounds. Smalley’s birdie on the 18th hole secured him a runner-up position alongside Rahm, who congratulated Rai before heading back to the clubhouse.
The trophy presentation for the 108th PGA Championship ensued, with Rai receiving applause from the audience. Holding the prestigious Wanamaker Trophy, Rai expressed his gratitude, stating on Sky Sports, “Very surreal [to win]. It has been a frustrating season, so to be stood here was not in my wildest imagination. So it is phenomenal to be stood here.”
