‘Work when nobody’s looking’: How Aaron Rai parlayed two gloves, iron covers and a dream into a PGA Championship

NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. —

Aaron Rai spiritually won the PGA Championship when he rolled in a massive 70-foot birdie putt on the 17th that vaulted him to a four-stroke lead on the field. The way that Aronimink was set up, the grandstands and corporate tents that circled 17 fed sound up to 18, and the grandstands there fed it back down again — a massive bowl of good cheer for Aaron Rai. 

Up on the 18th green, as the cheers from 17 approached in waves, McIlroy stood leaning on his putter, an impassive expression on his face. He looked over to the enormous screen nearby and watched what he already knew: Rai had effectively just clinched his first major. 

A few minutes later, Rai walked up onto the 18th himself. The Philly fans stood and applauded his approach, and not a “U-S-A” was heard. They’d witnessed greatness on Sunday, and they knew it. 

About 25 minutes later, Rai stood in that clubhouse dining room. No players were dining there; none were left. That’s what happens when you’re the last man standing. 

The last groups had a few shots left to play, but the outcome was clear. All that remained now was the celebration. 

The two French doors to the patio outside and the grandstand beyond opened up, and Rai began his walk through them. Before Sunday, he was best known for being the guy who still wears two gloves to play golf. Now, he’s the major champion who still wears two gloves. 

Rai — who, unfortunately, did not wear two gloves to lift the Wanamaker Trophy — walked through the clubhouse’s doors toward the impending celebration. He didn’t hesitate for even a moment.