Aaron Rai, hailing from England, emerged victorious at the 2026 PGA Championship held at Aronimink Golf Club, showcasing an outstanding performance in the final round. Rai, originally from Wombourne, Staffordshire, secured his inaugural major title in Pennsylvania by carding a remarkable 65, finishing at -9 over the four-day tournament.
After sinking a par putt at the 18th hole, Rai shared a heartfelt embrace with his caddie, Jason Timmis, followed by a warm moment with his wife, Gaurika Bishnoi. Subsequently, he signed his scorecard, posed for photos with his score, and strolled back onto the course with his wife.
Despite trailing the leader, Alex Smalley, by two shots heading into the final round, Rai capitalized on his competitors’ struggles, including Smalley, to claim the Wanamaker Trophy with an impressive performance that included an eagle and six birdies. Notably, Rai’s exceptional play on the back-nine set him apart from notable contenders like Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm.
In a standout moment on the 17th hole, Rai sank a remarkable 30-foot putt, while his rival, Matti Schmid, faced a bogey on the 15th. Rai’s victory at the PGA Championship makes him the first Englishman since Jim Barnes in 1919 to clinch this prestigious title.
Following the conclusion of the tournament, Rai joyously awaited the final groups to finish their rounds at Aronimink, wearing a smile that rarely faded. He later returned to the course to hoist the Wanamaker Trophy after Schmid and Smalley completed their rounds. Smalley finished as the runner-up alongside Rahm, who both congratulated Rai on his triumph.
During the trophy presentation for the 108th PGA Championship, Rai received warm applause from the audience as he proudly held the Wanamaker Trophy, expressing his gratitude for the incredible win. Reflecting on his victory, Rai shared his emotions with Sky Sports, stating, “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.”