Sam Burns is heating up at the U.S. Open, and his biggest fan is right there in the gallery. The 29-year-old former LSU star has clawed his way back into contention, sitting just one shot off the lead late Sunday afternoon. But while the golf world focuses on his comeback, many are also captivated by the woman cheering him on: his wife, Caroline Burns.
Caroline, a Louisiana native and fellow LSU graduate, has been by Sam's side since they were kids—literally. “I was his first Valentine when we were 5 years old,” she once told WJCL. The couple, who share a Christian faith, welcomed their first child, a son named Bear, in 2024. Now, as Sam chases his first major title on Father's Day, Caroline is front and center, offering support and smiles.
Here are five unforgettable photos of Sam and Caroline Burns that capture their journey together.
1. Celebrating the Valspar Championship (2021)
After Sam's first PGA Tour win at the Valspar Championship in 2021, the couple posed with the trophy on the 18th green. Caroline beamed as she held the massive silver cup, a moment that marked the start of Sam's rise. The image, taken by Jasen Vinlove, shows the pair in matching blue outfits, radiating pure joy.
2. Embracing on the 18th Green
In the same 2021 victory, a more intimate moment unfolded. After sinking the final putt, Sam embraced Caroline on the green, burying his face in her shoulder. The photo, also by Vinlove, captures the raw emotion of a dream realized—and the partner who helped make it possible.
3. Caddying at the Masters Par 3 Contest (2026)
During the 2026 Masters, Caroline stepped into a new role: caddie. At the Par 3 Contest, she carried Sam's clubs while pushing their son Bear in a stroller. The image, shot by Michael Madrid, shows the family of three on the fourth hole, with Augusta National's azaleas blooming in the background.
4. Holding Up Another Trophy
After another Tour victory, the couple posed for a celebratory photo. Caroline, dressed in a stylish white top and jeans, held the trophy while Sam wrapped an arm around her. The picture radiates the easy chemistry of two people who have been together since childhood.
5. Stunning at the Presidents Cup
At the 2022 Presidents Cup, Caroline turned heads in a chic black-and-white dress. The couple walked the course arm-in-arm, and a candid shot captured Caroline laughing, her hair blowing in the breeze. It's a reminder that even in the pressure cooker of professional golf, love and joy can shine through.
As Sam Burns continues his charge at the U.S. Open, one thing is clear: he has an all-star team behind him. And Caroline Burns, with her marketing degree from LSU and counseling master's from Westminster Theological Seminary, is the anchor. For more on the drama unfolding at the U.S. Open, check out our coverage of historic collapses and comebacks in sports.
The final round of the U.S. Open is airing live on NBC. Stay tuned to see if Sam can turn his Father's Day charge into a major victory—with Caroline and Bear cheering him on.
