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Rai Wins PGA, First English Champion Since 1919

5/18/2026

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Summary

Rai Wins PGA

Rai won the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club May 17, 2026.
He shot a 5-under 65, three strokes ahead of Jon Rahm and Alex Smalley.
A birdie putt on the par-3 17th sealed the win after an eagle on the ninth lifted him from strokes behind.
The win made Rai the first Englishman to capture PGA Championship since 1919, earned him $3.69 million and secured a PGA Tour exemption and invitations.

Summary

McIlroy Shuts Fan

Rory McIlroy shouted an expletive and told a fan to “shut up” after the spectator yelled “U-S-A!” on the 16th hole.
He finished with a 69, tying for seventh at 4 under after a bogey on the drivable par-4 13th.
The group featured Alex Smalley and Matti Schmid, the first pairing in 23 years with two never-winners, as 21 players were within four shots of the lead and eight major champions stayed in contention.

History

Historical Context

In February 1916 the PGA of America was founded and a month later held its inaugural championship (Oct 10-14, 1916) at Siwanoy Country Club, where English-born Jim Barnes won $500 and a diamond-studded medal. After World I cancelled the 1917-18 events, the PGA grew into a global major. In 2026 Englishman Rai won at Aronimink, the first British champion since Barnes, highlighting renewed international competition.

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Rai Wins PGA

Rai won the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club May 17, 2026.
He shot a 5-under 65, three strokes ahead of Jon Rahm and Alex Smalley.
A birdie putt on the par-3 17th sealed the win after an eagle on the ninth lifted him from strokes behind.
The win made Rai the first Englishman to capture PGA Championship since 1919, earned him $3.69 million and secured a PGA Tour exemption and invitations.

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