Ask Onix
Aaron Rai triumphs at US PGA Championship
England's Aaron Rai secured his first major title on Sunday, winning the US PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia by three strokes. The 31-year-old finished at nine under par, capping a dominant performance with a final-round 65.
An unconventional path to victory
Rai's journey to the top of professional golf has been marked by distinctive habits and determination. Unlike most players, he wears two gloves for better grip-a preference that began in his youth after a brief, uncomfortable experiment with just one. He also uses iron covers and castle tees, setting him apart from his peers.
His rise to prominence was accidental. As a toddler, Rai suffered a head injury while playing with his brother's hockey sticks, prompting his mother to buy plastic golf clubs instead. What started as a safety measure became a lifelong passion.
From childhood prodigy to major champion
Rai's talent was evident early. By age five, he was already winning tournaments, and archival footage shows him confidently discussing his ambitions with local reporters. His father, Amrik, took him to 3 Hammers Golf Complex in Wolverhampton for lessons, where instructor Darren Prosser quickly recognized his potential.
"He was right on it physically and mentally. You thought then he was ready to go professional."
Darren Prosser, Rai's early coach
Though he initially dreamed of becoming a Formula 1 driver-even wearing Ferrari-branded clothing during junior tournaments-golf became his sole focus by age nine. His parents made significant sacrifices to support his career, with his father quitting his job to dedicate more time to Rai's development and his mother working long hours to fund his ambitions.
Breaking barriers and inspiring others
As one of the few British Asians in elite golf, Rai has become a role model. In a 2018 interview, he acknowledged that pursuing golf professionally wasn't always encouraged in his community, where traditional career paths were prioritized. However, his parents fully backed his dreams, defying cultural expectations.
His wife, professional golfer Gaurika Bishnoi, played a key role in his victory, offering technical and mental advice during a half-hour conversation before the final round. Fellow competitors praised Rai's relentless work ethic, with Rory McIlroy noting, "You won't find one person on the property who's not happy for him."
A patient, precise performance
The US PGA Championship at Aronimink tested players with punishing pin positions, undulating greens, and thick rough. Rai's disciplined approach-honed through years of perseverance-proved decisive. After missing cuts in his first two majors, he finally broke through, demonstrating resilience and focus.
"That's what it's about to be a major champion. You put the work in when nobody's looking."
Xander Schauffele, two-time major winner
With his victory, Rai joins the ranks of golf's elite, proving that determination and individuality can overcome convention.
