Aaron Rai has become the first Englishman to win the Wanamaker Trophy since 1919, capturing the US PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club. The 31-year-old from Wolverhampton held off a strong field, finishing three shots clear of Jon Rahm and earning widespread praise from his peers for his character and dedication.
A Popular Champion
Rory McIlroy, who had already finished his round, said: “Looks like he’s going to win, which is great. You won’t find one person on property who’s not happy for him.” Jon Rahm, who finished three shots back, added: “There’s very few people that are nicer and kinder human beings than Aaron.” Xander Schauffele, five shots behind, called him “such a good dude.”
Background and Values
Rai’s journey to the top has been marked by hard work and family sacrifice. His father quit his job to support his golf, his mother worked two jobs, and his sister started working at 14. Rai still uses head covers on his irons, a habit from childhood when he had to protect expensive equipment. “That shows a lot about a person,” Rahm noted.
Rai, who has no agent and avoids social media, credits his wife Gaurika Bishnoi, a former Indian No. 1 female golfer, and his long-time coaches. He is known as one of the hardest workers on tour, often practicing late into the evening.
Path to Victory
Rai turned professional at 17 and steadily climbed the ranks. He won on the Challenge Tour, DP World Tour, and secured his PGA Tour card in 2021. His first PGA Tour victory came at the 2024 Wyndham Championship, followed by the 2025 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. The PGA Championship is his first major title.
“My dad really instilled the importance of work and dedication in me,” Rai said. “Golf is an extremely humbling game. Nothing is ever given.”
With his win, Rai joins an elite list of English major champions and has cemented his place in golf history as the nice guy who finished first.
