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Aaron Rai returns to India with PGA Championship success and father's wisdom

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 13, 2026, 23:31 IST

After his landmark PGA Championship victory, English golfer Aaron Rai returns to the Delhi Golf Club for the DP World India Championship, crediting his parents' sacrifices and belief for his professional rise.

Aaron Rai returns to India with PGA Championship success and father's wisdom

Aaron Rai has returned to the National Capital Region with a significantly elevated profile following a breakthrough season on the global stage. The 31-year-old, who previously visited the area to support his wife, Gaurika Bishnoi, at the Hero Women’s Indian Open, is now set to compete in the DP World India Championship at the Delhi Golf Club.

The Englishman enters the tournament as one of the primary contenders, buoyed by a historic performance in May. Rai secured the PGA Championship title, marking the first time an English golfer had claimed the trophy since Jim Barnes in 1919. Reflecting on his recent success, the golfer acknowledged that the victory has been a life-changing experience.

The influence of family and discipline

Rai attributes his professional development and current standing to the unwavering support of his parents, Amrik and Dalvir. Despite facing financial constraints, his parents prioritised his golfing ambitions, providing the foundation for his career. Central to his development was the philosophy instilled by his father, who consistently encouraged him to disregard perceived boundaries.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Rai shared the core message that has guided his approach to the sport. He noted that his father taught him that there are no inherent limits to what an individual can achieve, regardless of their background or resources. Rai emphasised that while society often attempts to categorise individuals, diligence and discipline allow anyone to unlock significant potential.

Staying grounded on the tour

Beyond his technical achievements, such as his well-known practice of using iron covers to maintain his equipment, Rai remains focused on maintaining his character. Often described as one of the most approachable figures on the professional circuit, he views his public persona as a responsibility to others.

Rai expressed the importance of remaining warm and setting positive examples for those around him. He noted that he believes in the ripple effect of such actions, suggesting that small gestures of positivity can have a meaningful impact on others. As he prepares for the upcoming competition, the golfer remains committed to the values that have defined his journey from his early days to his current status as a major champion.