Jon Rahm Arrives at Aronimink Feeling Sharp and Focused for 2026 PGA Championship

Jon Rahm heads into his 10th PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club feeling positive about his game and the year so far. After a strong showing last week at LIV Golf Virginia that tested shot-making in shifting winds, Rahm believes the experience sharpened him for the second major of 2026. “Feeling good. It's been obviously a good year,” Rahm said. “Last week was a proper test of golf… I didn't hit it my best, but you can learn a few things on the week prior to a major. Feeling pretty good and hope I can keep the form going.”

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Rahm addressed his approach to par-3s, where he holds the best scoring average over the past decade. He revealed there is no special strategy — it’s simply a matter of seeing the flag and attacking. “No. Honestly, I am actually surprised I would be the one because it's usually a see-a-flag, hit-flag type of attitude,” Rahm explained. “There's nothing special that goes into it… the only good thing is that you're guaranteed a good lie on a par-3. So if, I would say, mid- to a long-iron game, I'm pretty good, and I think that probably has something to do with it.”

On broader trends in golf course architecture, particularly the removal of trees at classic venues, Rahm offered a balanced perspective. He understands some changes help with course conditioning and wind flow but questions the impact on strategy. “While I see both points, I don't know which one is more valid than the next,” he said. “I do believe a lot of it has to do with course conditions… However, when it comes to the playability, I don't know because I've never played this course with trees.”

Rahm acknowledged the significance of potentially completing the Spanish Grand Slam with a PGA victory, noting Spanish players have historically struggled in the event. “It does mean a lot,” he said. “Statistically for whatever reason it's our poorest performance across all majors… to tie it all together with the greats of the past of Spain would be quite unique.”

Reflecting on his form compared to previous major wins, Rahm noted each triumph came under different circumstances. “Each one has been a very, very different experience,” he explained. “I would say somewhere in between right now, very, very comfortable in general.” He also addressed last year’s consistency without wins, calling it a year of growth that has carried into 2026 with multiple victories already.

On the ongoing noise surrounding LIV Golf’s future, Rahm stays focused on what he can control. “It's something we've had to deal with… but it's just some things that are out of my control,” he said. “My job is to play golf, luckily. I'm decent at it. And that's what I can focus on.” Rahm expressed faith in LIV leadership while emphasizing his role as a competitor.

With a strong recent track record and comfort at Aronimink, Rahm is well-positioned to contend as he seeks his third Major title. His blend of experience, recent momentum, and clear mindset suggests he will be a major factor this week at one of golf’s biggest stages.

Photos, quotes, and data courtesy PGA of America/PGA Championship