2026-05-18 10:27:54
Aaron Rai is thrilled to have emulated his “idol” Tiger Woods after claiming his maiden major title at the PGA Championship.
The golfer became the first English player to win the Wanamaker Trophy for over 100 years with his three-stroke triumph at Aronimink on Sunday (17.05.26) and was delighted to follow in the footsteps of the American great, whom he frequently watched video footage of when he was growing up.
Rai told reporters: “I don’t think we still have the tapes, but we used to watch them a hell of a lot, probably two, three times a week, if not more.
“He’s obviously such an icon and such a huge figure in the game. At that point, this was someone who was super-human, who was very much someone that I really idolised.
“I just remember being in awe just watching all of the things that he could do so to have my name with him on this trophy is incredible really.”
Rai shot a super final round 65 to clinch the title and hailed his parents for helping him acquire the diligence that turned him into a major champion.
He said: “Golf in itself is an extremely humbling game. There’s so much hard work and discipline that goes into acquiring the skills to become better.
“You also realise that nothing is ever given in this game at any point, whether it’s a tournament, a practice round, even away from a tournament week. All of these things have to be done diligently and require focus.
“There are a lot of guys who work extremely hard. The level on the PGA Tour is so strong, so it is a prerequisite of what is required to try and compete out here.
“It’s extremely affirming to know the things that we’re doing are working and leading to continued development within the game. Hopefully I can just continue to move along a pretty similar path moving forward.”
Rai also explained that he wouldn’t have been able to win the PGA Championship without the support of his wife Gaurika Bishnoi, who herself is a professional golfer.
The world number 44 said: “She’s been incredible. I’m not exaggerating when I say that I wouldn’t be here without her.
“As a companion, as a friend, as someone I’m sharing my life with, but also as a real support system for my game. Her mindset, her advice, her thoughts, whether it’s technique or the way I’m holding myself is absolutely invaluable.
“We had a conversation yesterday for probably 30 minutes in the car just before we got back to the hotel. Some of the things that she mentioned were really with me today.”
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