Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Aaron Rai Wins 2026 PGA at 290-1 Odds

5/18/2026

43 5

Summary

Story summary

Aaron Rai won the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, posting a 9-under 271 total.
He captured the title at 290-1 odds, the longest-odds major victory in at least two decades.
The win earned him a $3.69 million share of the record $20.5 million purse, a five-year PGA Tour exemption and invitations to the Masters, U.S. Open and Open Championship.

History

Historical Context

In July 1999 the 128th Open Championship at Carnoustie saw Scotland’s Paul Lawrie, ranked 241st, erase a ten-stroke deficit to win a four-hole playoff over Jean van de Velde. Lawrie’s triumph was the most dramatic comeback of the 1994-2004 era that produced several first-time major winners, reinforcing the Open’s reputation for unpredictable, high-stakes competition.

1 of 2

Story summary

Aaron Rai won the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, posting a 9-under 271 total.
He captured the title at 290-1 odds, the longest-odds major victory in at least two decades.
The win earned him a $3.69 million share of the record $20.5 million purse, a five-year PGA Tour exemption and invitations to the Masters, U.S. Open and Open Championship.

1 / 2