When we sat down to interview Blair O’Neal, she arrived with the confidence of someone who’s spent her life balancing high-stakes tournaments, glamorous photo shoots, and now the beautiful chaos of motherhood. As a former professional golfer, model, and esteemed Golf Channel host, Blair has navigated an extraordinary career path. In this exclusive interview, she shares her story with honesty, humor, and a sprinkle of her signature charm.
When it comes to Blair’s career-defining moment, she points to her win on Golf Channel’s Big Break Dominican Republic.
“Winning that opened so many opportunities for me. I went back to playing professional golf with a platform and visibility I never imagined.”
But her love for golf started long before reality TV.
“I didn’t pick up a golf club until I was 11. My dad signed me up for a junior clinic, and I was hooked. I quit dance lessons that week and dove headfirst into golf.”
Even at that young age, Blair’s determination was clear.
“I had dreams of becoming a LPGA player when I grew up. I was so focused, and it was all I cared about.”
From ASU to Pro Golf
Blair’s dream of playing for Arizona State University was unwavering.
“I grew up watching the ASU women’s golf team on TV. They were winning national championships, and I told my dad it was where I wanted to go. When the ASU letter finally arrived, I was ecstatic.”
Playing for ASU was both a challenge and stepping-stone.
“While I was there, we went through three different coaches, which was tough but also taught me a lot. After college, I turned pro immediately and started playing in Asia. But at the same time, I began modeling.”
Blair recalls how those dual careers shaped her path.
“Back then, NCAA rules didn’t allow student-athletes to have other jobs, so I missed out on some opportunities, like a Golf Digest shoot in Hawaii. After graduating, I finally got to do that awesome calendar shoot in Hawaii, and that’s how my modeling career took off. In fact, modeling helped fund my pro golf career because I didn’t come from a wealthy family. I had to figure it out myself.”
Balancing Golf and Glamour
Balancing two careers wasn’t easy. “I’d play a tournament, then fly out for a photo shoot. It was a constant juggling act. But looking back, it taught me how to manage multiple things at once, which has been invaluable as a mom.”
Her modeling highlights include features in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition and Maxim.
“Sports Illustrated was a dream. One of the shoots was with Cobra Golf, and I was holding their driver in the photos. Those moments are so special to me, and I love that I’ll be able to show my kids one day, like, ‘Look at what Mom did!’”
Social Media and the Evolution of a Brand
Blair was an early adopter of social media.
“It started with MySpace,” she says, laughing. “Back then, only models were on there, so I thought, ‘Why not start a golf page?’ Then I moved to Facebook, and later Instagram when Cobra and Puma Golf encouraged me. They told me, ‘You’ve got to get on there,’ so I did. It was one of the best things for my career.”
Her Instagram feed became a blend of golf, travel, and modeling.
“I’ve always approached my brand thoughtfully. You’ll see bikini photos from a Sports Illustrated shoot or me on the golf course in traditional golf attire. I’ve always believed there’s a time and place for everything.”
On staying authentic, Blair says, “I’m just being me. I’ve never posted anything I’m not proud of. My brand is my business, and I’ve always thought long-term about how my decisions will affect me down the road.”
Motherhood: A New Chapter
Motherhood has added a new layer to Blair’s life.
“My first son was born in April 2020, right when COVID hit. COVID was actually a blessing in disguise because I didn’t have to miss anything with my baby—I got to be home with him while the world slowed down.”
Her second son brought new challenges.
“When Canon was born, I was back to work at five weeks post-partum. I even played tournaments while pumping on the golf course! I had portable pumps and ice packs in my golf bag. It was wild.”
When asked how she juggles it all, Blair comments, “It’s about prioritizing. I’ve learned to say no to things that don’t align with my family or career goals. Some days are easier than others, but I just take it day by day.”
What’s Next for Blair?
Blair is looking forward to 2025 with excitement.
“I’ve got fresh big projects in the works,” she says, keeping the details under wraps. “I never stopped working after having kids, but now that they’re getting older, I can focus more on new opportunities. Stay tuned on Instagram for announcements!”
Blair O’Neal is a testament to what’s possible with hard work, determination, and a little creativity. Whether she’s conquering the golf course, gracing magazine covers, or navigating mom-life, Blair continues to inspire.
“Being a mom comes first, but I want my kids to see that ambition and hard work can lead to amazing things.”
Quick Hits with Blair
Cheat Meal? “Mexican food. All of it.”
Favorite Golf Course? “Pebble Beach. It’s magical.”
Workout Routine? “Pilates!”
IG @BlairONealGolf
“I’ve never posted anything I’m not proud of. My brand is my business, and I’ve always considered how my decisions will affect me. Being a mom comes first, but I want my kids to see that ambition and hard work can lead to amazing things.”