Justine Reed is best known as the wife of Patrick Reed and a visible presence throughout his golf career, including serving as his former caddie. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Justine Reed Met Patrick Reed Through an Unexpected Connection
GettyPatrick Reed of the United States (L) and his wife, Justine Karain, talk on the fifth hole during a practice round prior to the 2019 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach Golf Links on June 11, 2019 in Pebble Beach, California.
Justine met Patrick while they were both attending college, but their relationship began in an unexpected way.
Patrick initially went on a date with Justine’s younger sister before eventually connecting with Justine.
“So I start talking with Justine, who I discovered is this incredibly driven person who was pursuing dual degrees while working to become a nurse,” Patrick told Golf Digest. “We kept talking as a couple of years went by; then we started dating. Best decision of my life.”
The couple married on December 21, 2012, and have built their life together throughout Patrick’s professional golf career.
2. Patrick Reed’s Wife Was His First Caddie on Tour
Before Patrick became an established name in golf, his wife played a direct role in his early career.
She worked as his caddie during qualifying rounds and his first two PGA Tour seasons, including his breakthrough win at the 2013 Wyndham Championship.
At the time, she balanced her responsibilities as a nurse while traveling and supporting Patrick on tour.
When she became pregnant in 2014, she stepped away from caddying. Her brother, Kessler Karain, then took over the role and has remained Patrick’s caddie since.
Patrick explained the transition, saying, “That’s actually a great idea because he has the same exact kind of demeanor as Justine. He has same work ethic… he’s just kind of really even-keeled.”
3. Justine Reed Built a Career in Healthcare Before Golf
Justine earned two undergraduate degrees before Patrick turned professional in 2011 and worked as a nurse while supporting his early career.
In addition to her academic background, she was also active in sports, participating in swimming and soccer.
Her ability to balance her own career with Patrick’s rising profile helped establish their partnership early on.
Patrick has often acknowledged her importance, writing on Instagram, “My wife, best friend, rock and teammate. Happy Mother’s Day Justine — we all love you very much and appreciate all that you do for us.”
4. Patrick Reed’s Wife Has Drawn Attention for Speaking Out
Justine has been a visible and sometimes outspoken figure in the golf world.
During the 2018 Ryder Cup, she publicly questioned team decisions, responding to criticism of Patrick’s pairing.
Addressing her partner’s Ryder Cup pairing, she asked one person on Twitter to “ask Jordan (Spieth)” in response to a post about why the Reed-Spieth team was split up.
She also criticized media coverage at the time, calling it “journalistically disqualified.”
5. Justine Reed Has Been at the Center of Family Controversy
GettyPatrick and Justine Reed look at the course during the 2017 Masters Par 3 Tournament.
Justine has also been part of a widely reported family situation involving Patrick’s estrangement from his relatives.
According to ESPN’s Ian O’Connor, “The Reeds haven’t spoken to their son and brother in six years.”
The report added that Patrick and Justine were on one side of the situation, while his parents and siblings were on the other.
Golf.com also reported that family members were escorted off the grounds of the 2014 U.S. Open following requests tied to Justine.
Despite the challenges, she has remained a constant presence in Patrick’s personal and professional life.
Patrick Reed’s High-Profile Wife, Justine: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know