Aaron Rai calls PGA Championship win ‘beyond his imagination’

Aaron Rai described his victory at the US PGA Championship as being beyond his "wildest imagination" after winning the tournament by three shots at Aronimink Golf Club. The 31-year-old from Wolverhampton became the first English winner of the event since 1919. He attributed his success to his wife and parents as he delivered a final round score of 65, showcasing moments of brilliance throughout the tournament.

Rai ignited his round with a superb eagle at the ninth hole and secured his victory with a majestic 69-foot birdie on the 17th hole. Reflecting on his achievement, he stated, "To be stood here is definitely outside of my wildest imagination." Known for his unique style of wearing two gloves and using covers on his irons, Rai has a deep respect for his equipment, reminiscences of the Titleist clubs his father bought him when he was a child.

Born to working-class parents in Wolverhampton, Rai honored the sacrifices they made for his golf career. He shared, "It’s probably hard for me to really express everything that I feel towards them. I think I’ll get way too emotional to speak." His father was present at his every practice session from when he was four or five years old, even quitting his job to focus on supporting Rai's golf journey. Rai acknowledged his mother's incredible support, mentioning the long hours she worked to provide for the family.

Rai’s wife, Gaurika Bishnoi, a professional golfer on the Ladies European Tour, sat alongside him during his media address with the Wanamaker Trophy. He credited her crucial role in his success: "I wouldn’t be here without her. Both as a companion, as a friend… but also as a real support system for my game."

Entering the final round, Rai was tied on four under par with other prominent players including Jon Rahm and Ludvig Aberg, trailing leader Alex Smalley. Justin Thomas initially set the clubhouse lead with a score of 65, but Rai overcame three early bogeys to finish at nine under par, leaving him three shots ahead of Rahm and Smalley. McIlroy, another major champion, finished five shots behind, unable to replicate his previous success.

Rai is regarded as one of golf's nicest players, with many praising his humility. He reflected, "I think a lot of that has come from my upbringing… my mum and my siblings reinforced the importance of just being a good person."

His victory at the US PGA Championship ended a decade of dominance by American players and made him the first English winner since Jim Barnes, the event's inaugural champion. Rai expressed immense pride in his achievement, recognizing the historic legacy of English players over the past century.