The 2026 PGA Tour season continues to showcase why it’s the top league for any athlete within the sport. A week of PGA Championship action took place at Aronimink Golf Club, with a field of top tier talent to say the least. From the start of round one until the final day, competition was at its highest yet in a Major Championship this season. With constant leader-board changes throughout, every putt came with significance. That significance came full circle in the end, as Aaron Rai claimed his first ever major championship. Also becoming the first Englishman to win the PGA Championship since 1919, setting the tone for the future.
Aaron Rai Overcomes Odds
Coming into this tournament many did not have Rai on their list as a contender to win it all. Recently working his way back from a reported neck injury, the Englishman has got his groove back. Taking the Wanamaker Trophy after posting a 5-under 65 on Sunday, showed many Rai is far from done.
“Golf is an amazing game,” Rai said. “It teaches you so many things, and it teaches you so much humility and discipline and absolute hard work because nothing is ever given in this game.”
This victory was far from given to Rai as he worked his way up and down the leader-board, finally separating himself late Sunday. Putting up back-to-back birdies on holes 17 and 18, cleared his path to victory. Not only did this win put his name back into contention, but secured a five-year exemption on the Tour and multiple tournament invites.
“Very surreal,’’ Rai said. “It’s been a bit of a frustrating season. Standing here is definitely outside of my broadest imagination.’’
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PGA Championship Highlight
This major championship was arguably the most exciting thus far and for many reasons. Main ones surrounding the electric performance by Rai, constant leader-board changes, and now the sudden headlines surrounding the U.S. Open. With the next major right around the corner, it has lots of important elements. The most highlighted will be if Scottie Scheffler can complete his career grand slam. On the other hand, you will have Rai who will be looking for back to back major championship victories. Joining a short list to have ever completed such a feat in the sport.
“I’m super happy for him,” Xander Schauffele said. “He’s such a good dude. Rarely do you feel like people work way harder than you. I feel like I’ve played a pretty good amount of time, and Aaron is always there. He’s always in the gym. He’s always on the range. I think that’s what it’s about to be a major champion. You put the work in when nobody’s looking.”
With the much deserved praise from the peers of Rai comes a target as well. Taking down the top ranked athletes in the sport like he did, shows this season has been anyone’s to say the least. As the season continues so will the competition, it’s important for those like Rai to use momentum like such to carry him.
Main Photo Credit: © James Lang-Imagn Images
