Have you ever watched a golfer who looks like he’s just out for a Sunday stroll, yet somehow ends up at the top of the leaderboard? That is the magic of Sam Burns. If you follow the PGA Tour, you know his name. He is the guy with the calm eyes and the swing that looks as smooth as honey. But don’t let that relaxed vibe fool you. On the golf course, he is a fierce competitor who knows exactly how to close out a tournament when the pressure is on.
Born and raised in the heart of Louisiana, Sam Burns has become one of the most consistent and exciting players in professional golf. Whether he is sinking a 40-foot putt to win a playoff or representing the United States in the Ryder Cup, he always stays true to his roots. In this article, we are going to dive deep into his life. We will look at his early days, his amazing rise to the top of the world rankings, and what his life looks like today in 2026.
Who is Sam Burns? A Quick Overview
Before we get into the “nitty-gritty” details, let’s look at the basic facts. Sam Burns is a professional golfer who has made a massive name for himself on the PGA Tour. He isn’t just a one-hit wonder; he has won multiple times against the best players in the world. People love him because he is approachable and humble, often crediting his success to his faith and his family.
At 29 years old, he is right in the prime of his career. He has already achieved things that most golfers only dream of. From winning back-to-back titles to being a top-10 player in the world, his resume is already Hall-of-Fame caliber. Let’s break down his biography in the table below so you can see the stats at a glance.
Sam Burns Biography Table
| Feature | Details |
| Full Name | Samuel Holland Burns |
| Birth Date | July 23, 1996 |
| Birthplace | Shreveport, Louisiana, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) |
| College | Louisiana State University (LSU) |
| Turned Professional | 2017 |
| PGA Tour Wins | 5 (As of 2026) |
| Highest World Ranking | No. 9 |
| Spouse | Caroline Campbell (m. 2019) |
| Children | Bear Burns (Born 2024/2025) |
| Career Earnings | Over $35 Million |
| Current Residence | Choudrant, Louisiana |
Growing Up in Louisiana: The Early Years
The story of Sam Burns starts in Shreveport, Louisiana. Growing up, he wasn’t just focused on golf; he was a natural athlete. However, it didn’t take long for everyone to see that he had a special gift for the game of golf. He attended Calvary Baptist Academy, where he didn’t just play—he dominated. He won the individual state championship three times!
Imagine being a teenager and already being the best in your entire state. That kind of success usually goes to someone’s head, but not for Sam. He stayed focused and kept working on his craft. His parents, Todd and Beth Burns, were always there to support him. This solid foundation in the “Pelican State” helped him develop the mental toughness he uses on the tour today.
The LSU Tiger: College Dominance
After high school, Sam Burns decided to stay close to home and play for Louisiana State University (LSU). This was a big win for the Tigers. In 2017, he was named the NCAA Division I Jack Nicklaus National Player of the Year. Think of that as the “Heisman Trophy” for college golf. He was truly the best amateur in the country at that time.
During his time at LSU, he learned how to handle the spotlight. He wasn’t just playing for himself anymore; he was playing for a team. This experience was huge for him later on when he joined the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup teams. He eventually decided to turn pro in late 2017, and the world was ready to see what the kid from Louisiana could do.
Breaking Through: First PGA Tour Wins
Every golfer remembers their first win, but for Sam Burns, the floodgates really opened in 2021. He claimed his first title at the Valspar Championship. It was a massive moment. He didn’t just win; he proved that he belonged at the very top. Shortly after, he won the Sanderson Farms Championship in his home region, making him a hero to local fans.
The most incredible thing about Sam Burns is how he wins. He often finds himself in playoffs against the best in the world. In 2022, he beat his best friend, Scottie Scheffler, in a thrilling playoff at the Charles Schwab Challenge. He came from seven shots back on the final day! That kind of “never-say-die” attitude is why fans love watching him play.
Sam Burns and the Major Championships
While he has many wins on the regular tour, Sam Burns is still hunting for that first Major Championship trophy. He has come very close, though. In 2025, he held the lead during the U.S. Open and eventually finished in the top 10. This showed the world that his game is ready for the biggest stages in golf.
Playing in majors requires a different level of patience. The courses are harder, and the pressure is much higher. However, Sam Burns has the putting skills to win anywhere. His ability to roll the ball on the green is often ranked among the best on the PGA Tour. It is only a matter of time before he hoists a Claret Jug or puts on a Green Jacket.
Team USA: Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup
There is nothing quite like playing for your country. Sam Burns has been a staple for Team USA over the last few years. He made his Ryder Cup debut in 2023 and has played in multiple Presidents Cups. These events are loud, rowdy, and incredibly stressful, but Sam seems to thrive in that environment.
He is often paired with his close friends on the team. His chemistry with players like Scottie Scheffler makes them a dangerous duo. Whether he is playing in a four-ball match or a singles showdown, Sam Burns brings a level of consistency that every captain wants. He represents the “new generation” of American golf stars.
Personal Life: Marriage and Family
Away from the fairways, Sam Burns leads a very grounded life. He married his childhood sweetheart, Caroline Campbell, in 2019. Their story is actually quite famous in the golf world. They were each other’s first “Valentines” when they were only five years old! Talk about a real-life fairy tale.
In 2024, their lives changed forever when they welcomed their son, Bear. Sam has often talked about how being a father has given him a new perspective on life. Now, when he has a bad day on the course, he knows he gets to go home to a smiling baby boy. This balance between work and family is a big part of why he stays so calm during tournaments.
The 2026 Season: Current Form and Stats
As we look at the 2026 season, Sam Burns is still a force to be reckoned with. He has started the year with several top-25 finishes and remains high in the FedEx Cup standings. His stats show that he is hitting the ball longer than ever, and his putting remains his “deadly weapon” on the greens.
He recently signed a new partnership with Payntr Golf for his footwear, joining other stars like Jason Day. He is also using the latest Callaway Quantum driver, which has helped him stay competitive with the longest hitters on tour. It’s clear that Sam Burns is constantly looking for ways to get 1% better every single day.
What’s in the Bag? (WITB 2026)
If you are a gear nerd, you’ll be interested in what Sam Burns carries in his bag. He is a loyal Callaway staffer. He typically carries a mix of the latest technology and some “old reliable” clubs that he trusts. Here is a quick look at his 2026 setup:
- Driver: Callaway Quantum Triple Diamond
- Irons: Callaway Apex TCB
- Wedges: Callaway Jaws Raw
- Putter: Odyssey Ai-One (He is a wizard with this!)
- Ball: Callaway Chrome Tour
Sam Burns Net Worth and Earnings
Golf pays well if you are good, and Sam Burns is very good. As of early 2026, his career on-course earnings have surpassed $35 million. When you add in his sponsorship deals with brands like Callaway, Payntr, and others, his net worth is estimated to be quite substantial.
But Sam isn’t just about the money. He is very active in charity work. He supports initiatives like Compassion International, helping children in need. He uses his platform to give back to the community, which makes him a true role model both on and off the course.
Conclusion: The Future is Bright
In conclusion, Sam Burns is much more than just a talented golfer. He is a family man, a person of faith, and a dedicated athlete who has worked incredibly hard to get where he is. From the small towns of Louisiana to the biggest stages in sports, his journey is a testament to what happens when talent meets hard work.
As we move through the 2026 season, keep an eye on him. Whether he is defending a title or chasing his first Major, you can bet he will do it with a smile and a smooth swing. He is a credit to the game of golf, and we can’t wait to see what he achieves next.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many PGA Tour wins does Sam Burns have?
As of early 2026, Sam Burns has won 5 times on the PGA Tour. His most famous wins include the Valspar Championship and the Charles Schwab Challenge.
2. Who is Sam Burns’ wife?
He is married to Caroline Campbell. They grew up together in Shreveport, Louisiana, and have been married since December 2019.
3. Where did Sam Burns go to college?
He played college golf at Louisiana State University (LSU), where he was a standout player and won the Jack Nicklaus Award.
4. What is Sam Burns’ highest world ranking?
He reached as high as Number 9 in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) back in 2022.
5. Does Sam Burns have any children?
Yes! Sam and his wife Caroline have a son named Bear, who was born in 2024.
