Who is Aaron Rai? Englishman wins shock 2026 PGA Championship title and ends 100-year curse

Aaron Rai secured a shock victory to win the 2026 PGA Championship on Sunday evening.

The 31-year-old from Wolverhampton recorded an incredible -9 under par to hold off competition from Jon Rahm and Matti Schmid and win the Major.

It means Rai became only the second Englishman to win the Wanamaker Trophy after Jim Barnes won the first two titles in 1916 and 1919. Nick Faldo won six Major Championships in his illustrious career, but never managed to win the PGA Championship.

Former world number ones Justin Rose, Lee Westwood and Luke Donald also went close to success, but none managed to do what Rai achieved in Philadelphia. But who is Rai? Here is everything you need to know about the latest English sports star.

Who is Aaron Rai?

Full name: Aaron Rai

Date of Birth: 3 March 1995 (age 31)

Place of Birth: Wolverhampton

Nationality: English

Highest world ranking: 20 (22 September 2024)

Aaron Rai made history when he became only the second Englishman to win the PGA Championship.

The Englishman turned professional in 2012 and has competed in all four of the majors, while his highest world ranking was 20th, achieved in September 2024. He previously stated he wanted to become an F1 driver before he became a golfer.

Rai's shock victory at the PGA Championship was his 13th appearance at a Major, with his previous best finishes being ties for 19th at the PGA, the US Open, and The Open Championship. His best result at the Masters Tournament was a tie for 25th.

The 31-year-old is notable for being one of the few golfers who wears a glove on each hand. Rai claims he simply began playing golf wearing two gloves and didn't feel he could play the same when he tried to play with just one.

Before his victory at the PGA Championship, Rai made headlines when he defeated Tommy Fleetwood in a play-off to win the Abu Dhabi Championship in November 2025.