Aaron Rai has revealed that Tiger Woods and Cristiano Ronaldo were the two sporting figures who inspired him most growing up after his historic triumph at the PGA Championship.
The 31-year-old from Wolverhampton produced the performance of his life at Aronimink Golf Club, firing a brilliant five-under-par 65 in the final round to claim his maiden major title.
Rai finished on nine under par, three shots clear of Jon Rahm and Alex Smalley, while Rory McIlroy ended tied for seventh after mounting a late charge.
The victory secured Rai $3.69million in prize money and a lifetime exemption into the tournament.
It also ensured his place in the history books, with the golfer becoming the first player from England to win the PGA Championship since Jim Barnes lifted the trophy in 1919.
After completing the biggest win of his career, Rai reflected on the athletes he idolised as a youngster.
"I think Tiger Woods is such an icon and such a huge figure in the game, even now," he said.
"He was like a superhuman and he was someone whom I idolised very much."
Rai explained that he and his family regularly watched recordings of Woods' early successes during his childhood.
"We used to watch them a hell of a lot, probably two or three times a week, if not more," he said.
The new major champion also admitted he was captivated by Ronaldo's relentless pursuit of excellence.
"I also used to love soccer as well growing up," Rai added.
"Cristiano Ronaldo was incredible for a very long time."
Rai's own journey to the top has been defined by meticulous preparation and unwavering discipline.
Known throughout the sport for wearing two gloves and still using iron covers, he held his nerve superbly in a tightly packed final-round leaderboard.
After reaching the turn in one over par, Rai transformed the tournament with a stunning eagle at the ninth.
He then added birdies at the 11th, 13th and 16th before effectively sealing victory with a spectacular 68-foot putt on the 17th green.
When the significance of his achievement finally sank in, Rai admitted it felt surreal to see his name on the same trophy as Woods.
"To have my name even with him on this trophy is incredible," he said.
Rai also paid an emotional tribute to his wife, Gaurika Bishnoi, revealing her support had been instrumental in his breakthrough success.
"I'm not exaggerating when I say that I wouldn't be here without her," he said.
"She's a professional golfer herself, so her mindset, her advice and her thoughts are absolutely invaluable."
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