Rising Star: How an English Golfer Won Hearts and a Championship in America

Aaron Rai, the 31‑year‑old from Wolverhampton, captured the PGA Championship title in a stunning display.

• Final round: 65, six strokes under par on the last ten holes.
• Unexpected win: Despite a shorter driver, Rai’s strategic play matched the course perfectly.

During Monday practice, Rai sensed the crowd treated the session like a real round, and he praised fans as “amazing” from day one.
He expressed particular gratitude for the support of U.S. fans, noting his status as a foreign player in the country.

Rai also revealed he’s a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, which may explain the local enthusiasm.
When reporters asked if he knew he was the first Englishman to win since 1919, Rai admitted he didn’t realize it until the next day.

The victory not only added a new chapter to Britain’s rich golf history but also proved that classic, thoughtful strategy remains effective in modern tournaments.