England’s Aaron Rai claimed his first major title after winning the US PGA Championship at Aronimink.
Rai’s victory marks several milestones. He is the first Englishman to win the Wanamaker Trophy in over a century and the first non-American to triumph in a decade. He also wears two gloves while playing.
Rai’s Winning Performance at Aronimink
Rai, aged 31, demonstrated clarity and composure during the final round on a challenging course. A 69-foot putt on the 17th green secured his victory.
That putt was the second longest of the week. Rai carded a five-under 65 to finish nine under overall.
Rai had never previously finished in the top-10 at a major. He ended three shots ahead of Spain’s Jon Rahm and American Alex Smalley, who finished joint second.
“It is very surreal,” said Rai. “It has been a frustrating season so being stood here is outside of my wildest imagination.”
The Race for Second Place
Justin Thomas, Ludvig Aberg, and Matthias Schmid tied for third place. Thomas posted the early target after a five-under 65.
Thomas then waited to see if the wind would pick up and provide a “little bit of help” to win. However, the wind did not intensify as Thomas hoped.
Strategic Play Leads to Victory
Rai’s strategic thinking proved effective. Keeping his ball on the fairway from the tee was an effective tactic. He was joint second best on Sunday and fourth for the week in that statistic.
Birdies on the 11th and 13th holes moved Rai clear of the pack on seven under. In what was the biggest moment of his career, Rai remained emotionless.
Rai has struggled to practice at times this year because of a neck injury.