Aaron Rai has opened up about the profound influence of his wife, professional golfer Gaurika Bishnoi, on his remarkable victory at the PGA Championship. The Englishman triumphed at Aronimink, finishing nine under par with a final round featuring six birdies and an eagle, securing his first major title.
A Crucial Half-Hour Chat
Rai, 31, revealed that a 30-minute conversation with Bishnoi after his third round was instrumental. He said: 'She's been incredible. I'm not exaggerating when I say that I wouldn't be here without her. Both as a companion, as a friend, as someone I'm sharing my life with, but also as a real support system for my game.'
He added: 'She's a professional golfer herself. So her mindset, her advice, her thoughts, whether it's technique or the way I'm holding myself is absolutely invaluable. She encompasses so many different sides in her opinions. We even had a conversation yesterday for probably 30 minutes in the car just before we got back to the hotel, just speaking a little bit about today. Again, some of the things that she mentioned in the conversations were really with me today. Yeah, I really wouldn't be here without her.'
Gaurika Bishnoi's Career
Bishnoi competes on the Ladies European Tour and has amassed eight victories since turning professional a decade ago. Her experience and insights have been a cornerstone of Rai's success.
The Victory
Rai finished three shots clear of Alex Smalley and Jon Rahm. Ludvig Aberg, Justin Thomas, and Matti Schmid tied for fifth at five under par, while Cameron Smith, Xander Schauffele, and Rory McIlroy shared seventh place. McIlroy, the 2026 Masters champion, could not replicate his earlier form, finishing one under par on the final day.
Rai's pivotal moment came with a sensational 68-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole, setting up his triumph. McIlroy commented: 'Aaron is getting away from the field a little bit and looks like he's going to win, which is great. You won't find one person on property who's not happy for him.'
What the Win Means
As a result of his victory, Rai has secured a lifetime exemption into the PGA Championship and a five-year exemption into the Masters, U.S. Open, The Open, and on the PGA Tour. He also receives a replica Wanamaker Trophy and becomes the first English-born golfer to win the PGA Championship since Jim Barnes in 1919.
