Jon Rahm Wins PGA Championship at Kiawah Island with Dramatic Final Round Comeback

Jon Rahm authored one of the most memorable comebacks in major championship history on Saturday evening at Kiawah Island, firing a spectacular final-round 64 to overcome a four-shot deficit and win the PGA Championship by two strokes over Scottie Scheffler. The Spanish star emotional victory at the Ocean Course represents his third major title and first since the 2023 Masters, capping off a remarkable week of golf that showcased his mental toughness and exceptional shot-making ability under extreme pressure.

Rahm began the final round four shots behind overnight leader Viktor Hovland, but quickly served notice of his intentions with birdies on four of his first six holes that electrified the galleries and put immediate pressure on the Norwegian. The 31-year-old Spaniard was particularly impressive with his iron play throughout the opening nine, consistently finding the heart of greens despite the challenging wind conditions that had troubled many players throughout the week. His aggressive approach paid dividends as he made the turn in 30 strokes, suddenly finding himself in contention for the title.

The defining moment of Rahms victory came at the par-5 16th hole, where he produced arguably the shot of the championship with a 3-iron from 238 yards that found the green and set up an eagle putt from 18 feet. The crowd erupted as the ball settled just below the hole, and Rahm calmly converted the eagle to take the outright lead for the first time all day. His celebration was measured but emotional, recognizing that he had just delivered the shot that would likely determine the championship outcome.

Scheffler, the world No. 1, mounted a valiant charge of his own with four birdies on the back nine, but ultimately could not match Rahms relentless pressure over the final stretch. The American finished with a respectable 67 but expressed frustration with several missed opportunities on the greens that prevented him from applying maximum pressure on the leader. Hovland, meanwhile, struggled with the wind conditions and carded a disappointing 73 that dropped him to a tie for fifth place.

The victory represents a career renaissance for Rahm, who had been dealing with various personal and professional challenges over the past 18 months that had affected his performance in major championships. Working with swing coach Dave Phillips, Rahm had made subtle adjustments to his setup and tempo that proved crucial during the weeks most pressure-packed moments. His putting, which had been inconsistent in recent majors, was exemplary throughout the championship and particularly reliable when the stakes were highest.

Rahms triumph also carries special significance as it comes on the 25th anniversary of his idol Seve Ballesteros victory at the same venue, providing an emotional connection that was not lost on the Spanish champion during his post-round interview. The victory moves Rahm to sixth in the world rankings and establishes him as one of the favorites heading into the upcoming Masters Tournament at Augusta National, where he will attempt to defend the green jacket he won three years ago.

As Rahm held the Wanamaker Trophy aloft while fireworks lit up the South Carolina sky, the golf world was reminded of his exceptional talent and competitive spirit that has made him one of the games elite players. The victory also sets up an intriguing season ahead as multiple players appear capable of challenging for major championship honors throughout 2026.