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PGA Championship 2025 Preview and Predictions

Photo by Benny Hassum on Unsplash The PGA Championship is the second major of the calendar year, typically played in May. Organized by the PGA of America (distinct from the PGA Tour), it carries full major championship weight and a rich history that includes some of the sport's most dramatic finishes. Here's a complete guide to what the PGA Championship rewards, who historically performs best, and what to expect in upcoming editions. The PGA Championship's Unique Identity Among the four major championships, the PGA Championship is sometimes unfairly dismissed as the "fourth" major — the one that follows the Masters, US Open, and Open Championship in prestige. This is an undeserved reputation. The PGA Championship has produced some of the sport's greatest moments and is played at world-class venues on a rotating basis. What makes it distinct is its field composition: unlike the other majors, the PGA Championship traditionally includes the top 20 players from t...
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Aaron Rai: PGA Championship Winner and Dark Horse at the 2026 US Open

a man playing golf on a beach
Photo by Joseph Sintum on Unsplash

Aaron Rai won the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club and arrives at Shinnecock Hills as one of the most in-form players in professional golf. His Aronimink victory earned him automatic exemption into the 2026 US Open field and a five-year exemption into future US Opens. Here is what to know about the newest major champion heading into the third major of 2026.

The PGA Championship Victory

Rai's win at Aronimink was a performance that demonstrated his ability to manage a demanding course under championship conditions. Aronimink's Donald Ross design rewarded precision iron play and patient course management — qualities that translate directly to US Open conditions. His ability to score well at par 70 layouts with demanding approach shots is directly relevant to what Shinnecock Hills will require.

His Game Profile

Rai is known for exceptional ball-striking accuracy and a calm, methodical approach to tournament golf. He does not overpower courses and he does not force situations that are not there. That discipline — the willingness to accept par and wait for genuine birdie opportunities — is precisely the temperament that the US Open rewards and that historically produces major champions at Shinnecock Hills specifically.

The Challenge at Shinnecock

The US Open at Shinnecock presents a different kind of test than Aronimink. The links-style setting, the wind exposure, and the USGA's championship setup create conditions that require specific course management and shot-making adjustments. Rai's major championship experience is now deeper after Aronimink, and his game profile fits the US Open's demands. He will be underestimated by those who do not follow him closely. That could work in his favour on the leaderboard.

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