As the 2024 U.S. Open tees off, golf enthusiasts are buzzing about what the third major of the season holds. This sensational feeling was not just for the competition itself, but rather a confusion during the commentary. Fans, who are familiar with the social presence of Paige Spiranac, were surprised to hear the name “Paige” being mentioned by the commentators, and rightfully so! 

The golf diva is very much loved in the golf community for her candid presence, and owing to this, many immediately assumed it was the famous golfing diva lending her voice to the event. However, this assumption was quickly dispelled when it was revealed that the commentator in question was not Paige Spiranac, but Paige Mackenzie, another prominent figure in the golf world.

Who is Paige Mackenzie, and what does she do for a living?

Interestingly, the golf influencer playfully teased the golf world about stepping into the position of a golf analyst when Paul Azinger bid adieu to NBC. She wrote, “Fine, I will step in,” to the post on X that broke the news of Azinger’s exit. She also posted, “I’m a woman of the people. And the people want me to replace Paul Azinger. You can’t deny I’d bring two big attributes to the table. My personality and golf knowledge of course.” However, it was all a discussion that did not make it to real life.

Paige Mackenzie, a former professional golfer turned analyst, was the “Paige” on the commentary team. Unlike Spiranac, who is known for her vibrant online content and advocacy for a more inclusive approach to golf and other sports, Mackenzie has carved out her niche primarily through her insightful analysis and commentary in broadcasting.

The 41-year-old started as the lead analyst for the LPGA Tour. In 2015, she joined Golf Channel as an analyst on “Morning Drive”. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. Having transitioned from a competitive playing career on the LPGA Tour to a successful career in media makes her a valuable voice during major tournaments like the U.S. Open. She was also part of the commentary squad at the Masters this year. She was in Augusta for 14 days. She shared a couple of pictures from the Masters on her Instagram.

Mackenzie’s analytical skills make her a standout commentator in her own right. But what does her professional background in golf feature? Let us delve into it.

What was Mackanzie’s golfing career like?

Mackenzie was a very talented golfer during her younger years. She graduated from Eisenhower High School in 2001. Her prowess on the golf course earned her the prestigious title of 2000 Girl Golfer of the Year from both the Washington Junior and the Pacific Northwest Golf Association. She continued her stellar performance at the University of Washington, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in business in 2006.

She notched an impressive 22 top-10 finishes during her collegiate career, cementing her place atop the Huskies’ all-time list. For that achievement, she was inducted into the Husky Hall of Fame Class of 2023: Women’s Golf (2001–06). 

However, despite an illustrious amateur career, she met with a massive back injury and had to be sidelined from the golf course for 51 weeks. The impact was later seen, as she could not make much of an influence during her LPGA career. Her notable highlights included a T13 finish at the 2005 U.S. Women’s Open and claiming both the match play and stroke play titles at the 2005 Trans National Championship. Mackenzie excelled further by capturing the Pac-10 and NCAA West Regional championships in 2006, culminating in her recognition as the nation’s top-ranked amateur by Golfweek.

With this being said, we hope golf enthusiasts will be clear about who they heard while watching round one of the U.S. Open Championship. It remains to be seen how will the competition turn out to be at Pinehurst