Aaron Rai has stunned the golf world after completing an unexpected win at the 2026 PGA Championship.
The triumph of the British golfer of Indian origin created a new history as Rai emerged as the first Englishman to win the tournament in the stroke play era after beating the world’s best golfers.
Against all odds, the 31-year-old Wolverhampton native turned a huge starting position from a distance into a career-defining win. By firing a spectacular 5 under par 65 in the final round, he secured the most prestigious title.
In a post-match interview, Rai paid tribute to important personalities who inspired him to win his first-ever major championship title.
He remembers idolizing Tiger Woods growing up and watching VHS tapes of Woods’ early career several times a week, and found it surreal to now have his name next to him on the trophy.
Rai added, “I think Tiger Wood is such an icon and a huge figure in the game and even now. He was like a superhuman. And he was someone I really revered.”
Speaking of sports personalities who influence Rai, he is also called Cristiano Ronaldo.
“I also loved football growing up. Cristiano Ronaldo was incredible for a long time,” he said.
Known for wearing gloves in both hands, Rai scored a historic victory by draining a 65-foot bridie putt on the 17th hole.
Aaron Rai, the player of South Asian descent, became the first player to lift the Wanamaker Trophy since 1919, when James Barnes did the same.
