Aaron Rai has proven to be a hugely popular PGA Championship winner.
Rai claimed his maiden career major win at Aronimink last week, finishing on nine-under to claim a three-shot victory.
And his success has left many absolutely thrilled, particularly given his non-conforming approach to the sport.
Rai uses iron covers and wears two gloves, with his unique approach having just helped him secure the biggest title of his golfing career.
Among his admirers, Gary Player labelled Rai a “gentleman” following his PGA Championship victory, with his coach now sharing insight into what he is truly like to be around.
What PGA Championship winner Aaron Rai is really like to be around
Piers Ward explained on Dan on Golf: “I don’t think there has ever been a moment where there has been anything we have had to raise with him or gone that was a bit weird.
“I think we had a discussion at the PGA last year, where he was frustrated with his iron play, and we had a bit of a joke about a few things we said and he ended up being number one strokes gained approach that week and beat Scottie Scheffler in a major that he won.
“But we have never had any issues from that point of view. We have never seen him do something and gone that was a bit off.
“The one thing he’s really good at is that he always has time for everybody. He will just look you in the eye and listen. He is not in a rush to interrupt or get his words out.
“He will take everything in that you say and it doesn’t matter who it is, it could be Tiger [Woods] or it could be a seven-year-old fan, and he will just treat them exactly the same.
“He has got all the class. That comes from his Mum and Dad and his sisters, they have been phenomenal with that.”
Aaron Rai makes smart decision right after winning the PGA Championship
It is very high praise for Rai, who is clearly deserving of the success and the attention that his game and his attitude are attracting right now.
And while the Englishman will undoubtedly be eager to continue improving and continue enjoying success, Rai has withdrawn from The CJ Cup Byron Nelson.
It’s a smart decision from the now two-time PGA Tour winner, who will be both physically and emotionally drained from his week at Aronimink.
Aside from the golf itself, the duties of a major champion will have definitely taken their toll, although Rai won’t exactly be complaining.
It’s certainly a blow for the CJ Cup Byron Nelson and the PGA Tour, but given Rai’s popularity there will be few complaints, if any.
Besides, many high-profile names remain in the field at TPC Craig Ranch, namely Scottie Scheffler and Jordan Spieth.
Read more:
How many people watched Aaron Rai win the PGA Championship on TV as a five-year record broken
Michael Kim explains how he feels after watching Aaron Rai win the PGA Championship title
Johnson Wagner says whether he thinks Jordan Spieth can win The CJ CUP Byron Nelson this week
