English golfer Aaron Rai winning his maiden major title at the US PGA Championship in Philadelphia felt fitting in more ways than one.
As Rai waited to lift the Wanamaker Trophy at Aronimink Golf Club, the iconic Eye of the Tiger theme from Rocky III echoed around the clubhouse — a perfect soundtrack for a player whose journey mirrors the spirit of Philadelphia’s most famous fictional boxer, Rocky Balboa.
Rai battled through brutal course conditions and a star-studded leaderboard to finish nine-under par, securing a three-shot victory and the first major championship of his career.
The unusual golfer who wears two gloves
One of the things that makes Aaron Rai stand out is his unusual habit of wearing two gloves while playing — something rarely seen in professional golf.
Rai explained the habit began accidentally during childhood after he was once given two gloves while learning the game. When he later tried playing with just one glove, he felt uncomfortable and decided never to change.
The quirky style has now become part of his identity on tour.
Golf journey began after childhood accident
Rai’s introduction to golf also happened by chance.
As a toddler, he injured himself while playing with hockey sticks belonging to his older brother. His mother Dalvir went shopping for safer plastic toys but returned with plastic golf clubs instead — a decision that changed his life forever.
Although Rai once dreamed of becoming a Formula One driver inspired by Michael Schumacher, golf quickly became his true passion.
By the age of four, he was practising regularly at the 3 Hammers Golf Complex in Wolverhampton and rapidly emerged as one of the brightest young talents in the region.
Family sacrifices shaped Rai’s success
Rai emotionally credited his parents for helping him reach the top of world golf.
His father Amrik left his job to focus on Aaron’s development, while his mother worked long hours to support the family financially.
Rai said he would not be where he is today without their sacrifices and support.
The 31-year-old has also become an inspiration for aspiring British Asian golfers. Rai previously spoke about how careers in professional sport were not always encouraged in many Indian families, but his parents fully backed his ambitions.
Years of hard work finally rewarded
Aaron Rai turned professional in 2012 and gradually climbed through golf’s developmental tours before earning success in both Europe and the United States.
He had missed cuts in his early major appearances and never previously finished inside the top 10 at one of golf’s four biggest tournaments.
But patience, discipline and relentless hard work finally paid off in Philadelphia.
Six-time major champion Rory McIlroy said nobody at the course was unhappy to see Rai win, while fellow major winner Xander Schauffele praised Rai’s work ethic and dedication behind the scenes.
Philadelphia proved the perfect setting
The difficult conditions at Aronimink demanded resilience, precision and mental strength — qualities Rai displayed throughout the week.
And in the city forever linked with Rocky Balboa’s fighting spirit, the underdog from Wolverhampton produced the biggest victory of his career.
Discussion about this post