PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

May 17, 2026

John Wanamaker

Aronimink Golf Club

Flash Quotes

Q. How does it feel had to be here at Aronimink with the trophy?

JOHN WANAMAKER: It's amazing that it's being held in Philadelphia, because I'm from Philadelphia, but it's also there is history in the air. There is cheers in the crowd. I think my great grandfather would love this. He would be proud to see it come as far as it did.

For me, I'm just proud to be part of the link in the chain, you know. It's pretty awe inspiring for me to be here.

Q. You mentioned the history. It's 108 years old. What feelings do you get when you see the trophy and you're next to it?

JOHN WANAMAKER: A sense of pride, a strong sense of pride. Just a minute ago when I was standing next to it, my heart swells up. I have a strong sense of pride.

Q. This might be a silly question, but did you ever get to meet your great grandfather?

JOHN WANAMAKER: I didn't, no. He was too old. He had died. But the family history, we all talk about him, and my family ran the store after his death. He loomed pretty large in our family by discussions. But I never met him, no. But I feel like I have, as I've done a lot of history on him, research and that stuff. He was a very reserved man. He was kind of shy and quiet.

He loved championing people, and he loved people who would risk it all. He used to get behind people like that. If it was a good idea, he definitely backed it. Like Admiral Byrd flew across the Atlantic in the first multi-engine plane. He paid for the American plane to be built, and they raced against Charles Lindbergh. I think it was the news of the day.

Q. I mean, in some cases if it wasn't for Rodman, we wouldn't have this history of the championship.

JOHN WANAMAKER: Right. Exactly.

Q. How does it feel being back at a PGA championship?

JOHN WANAMAKER: It feels great. It's such an amazing course here, and it's so pretty, and the players are beyond talented. It's amazing watching the level of talent for me. I play a little golf, but I'm not even close to their skill level. It's amazing. It's amazing, hundreds of thousands of people come out for it.