Aaron Rai’s iron head covers protect more his perspective than his clubs

Aaron Rai, a 29-year-old professional golfer from England, has made significant strides in his career, capturing attention with his distinctive style and heartfelt traditions. Rai’s recent performance at the Rocket Mortgage Classic showcased his determination and talent, as he finished T2 with a remarkable score of 17 under par. This achievement marked his 85th career start on the PGA Tour and highlighted his potential to secure his first PGA Tour victory.

As the final round of the 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic approached, golf fans were treated to a heartwarming story involving Aaron Rai and his unique tradition with his irons. Rai has become known not just for his impressive skills on the course but also for his endearing habits: wearing two gloves and using iron covers.

A Tradition Born from Aaron Rai’s Humble Beginnings

Aaron Rai’s practice of wearing two gloves and using iron head covers is more than just a quirky habit; it’s a tribute to his father and their shared journey. Rai’s father introduced him to golf at the tender age of four, and it quickly became a family affair.

“I started from the age of 4 years old, and my dad used to pay for the equipment, pay for my memberships, my entry fees. And it wasn’t money that we really had, to be honest, but he’d always buy me the best clubs,” Rai recalled.

The tradition of wearing two gloves began when Aaron Rai was a young golfer. He received a pair of gloves from a manufacturer, and it became a habit. This habit was reinforced during a tournament when his father forgot to pack both gloves, forcing Rai to play with just one.

“I couldn’t play, I couldn’t feel the grip, so I’ve always stuck with the two gloves ever since,” Rai explained.

Iron covers, however, hold an even more profound significance for Aaron Rai. They symbolize the care and dedication his father put into maintaining his equipment.

“When I was about seven or eight years old, [my dad] bought me a set of Titleist 690 MBs, and they were like 800-1,000 pounds back then, just for a set of clubs for a kid. I cherished them,” Rai said.

His father meticulously cleaned each groove with a pin and baby oil, instilling in Aaron Rai a deep appreciation for his gear. To protect these cherished clubs, his father introduced the use of iron covers, a practice Rai has continued throughout his career.

Even though Aaron Rai now receives top-of-the-line equipment for free as a professional golfer, he continues to use iron covers as a reminder of his humble beginnings and the sacrifices his father made.

“It’s more out of principle and it’s more out of just the value of not losing perspective of what I have and where I am,” Rai noted.

The iron covers are a testament to his appreciation for the journey and the values instilled by his father.

Aaron Rai’s unique habits have sparked curiosity and admiration among golf fans and fellow players. While some may see iron covers as unnecessary, for Rai, they represent much more. They are a symbol of his father’s love and dedication, and a reminder to stay grounded despite his success.

Aaron Rai’s performance at the Rocket Mortgage Classic not only demonstrated his skill but also his resilience and commitment to honoring his roots. As he continues to make his mark on the PGA Tour, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring golfers and a reminder of the importance of family, tradition, and humility.

In a sport where tradition and innovation often collide, Aaron Rai stands out for his unique blend of both. His heartwarming story, combined with his impressive performance on the course, makes him a golfer to watch and root for in the years to come.