England’s Aaron Rai wins US PGA Championship following wife’s advice
English golfer Aaron Rai has revealed how simple but powerful advice from his wife helped him overcome his fears to win his maiden major title at the US PGA Championship.
The Wolverhampton-born golfer entered the final round of the tournament tied for second place and admittedly concerned about the pressure of a congested leaderboard.
Despite facing a star-studded chasing pack that included two-time major champion Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele, the Englishman remained completely composed.
His calmness was sparked by his wife, professional golfer Gaurika Bishnoi Rai, who offered a few reassuring words before he teed off.
“She said to me on Saturday night and before I started on Sunday as well: ‘You’re ready.’ That was really powerful,” Rai explained.
Overcoming a crowded leaderboard
Heading into Sunday, the 31-year-old was far from the pre-tournament favourite to lift the Wanamaker Trophy.
America’s Alex Smalley held the overnight advantage, with 22 players sitting within four shots of the lead in a historic battle.
However, the world number 15 seized control of the tournament after making a crucial eagle on the ninth hole.
From that moment, the famously two-gloved player became untouchable as he shot six under par through his final 10 holes to secure a commanding three-shot victory.
Embracing the spotlight
Known for avoiding attention, the major champion famously has no agent and manages his own affairs with the help of his long-term mentors.
He admitted that the prospect of dealing with heightened media commitments had previously been a source of anxiety.
“[My wife] is extremely honest with me – through the good and through the not-so-good. That particular piece of advice was very reassuring,” he added.
Since clinching the title and sharing an emotional embrace by the 18th green, the new champion has begun adapting to his elevated status.
“The reception and the warmth that has come from Sunday has been a little overwhelming. I am blown away by the amount of reaction,” he noted.