Aaron Rai of England has captured the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in a stunning upset, securing his first major title with a sensational final round performance. The 31-year-old from Wombourne, Staffordshire, shot a remarkable 65 on Sunday to finish at nine under par, overturning a two-shot deficit to claim the Wanamaker Trophy.
Final Round Heroics
Rai entered the final 18 holes trailing leader Alex Smalley by two strokes. However, he delivered a spectacular back-nine display, carding an eagle and six birdies to surge ahead of a field that included golfing heavyweights Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm. One of the most memorable moments came on the 17th hole, where Rai holed a 30-foot birdie putt as Matti Schmid bogeyed the 15th, effectively sealing the victory.
After sinking a par putt on the 18th, Rai shared an emotional embrace with his caddie Jason Timmis before celebrating with his wife, Gaurika Bishnoi. He then posed for photographs and walked back toward the course with his wife as the final groups completed their rounds.
Historic Achievement
Rai's triumph marks the first time an English golfer has won the PGA Championship since Jim Barnes in 1919. The world number 44, who had never previously contended in a major, waited in the clubhouse with a broad smile as his victory was confirmed before the tournament concluded.
The win represents a massive breakthrough for Rai, who emerged from a pack of big names to claim one of golf's most prestigious titles. His composed performance under pressure at Aronimink will be remembered as one of the sport's great shocks.
