One of the puzzles in the PGA Tour world is caddy earnings. Many believe PGA Tour caddies receive a weekly salary and 10 percent of their players’ winnings. However, that’s only sometimes true today. Let’s delve into how much caddies make and identify which ones are likely to thrive financially.
Quick insights:
- Caddies go beyond mere carriers of pro golfers’ clubs; they analyze the course, provide guidance, and effectively mentor their players throughout each hole.
- Within the PGA, caddies usually earn a weekly wage ranging from $1,500 to $4,000.
- Upon their player’s success in cutting, achieving a position, or winning a tournament, a caddie typically earns a gratuity in proportion to the winnings.
- Remarkably, certain caddies of top PGA players have amassed millions within a brief timeframe.
How Much Do Caddies Make?
Caddy pay mixes a weekly stipend with a slice of a player’s winnings. While deals vary, most PGA Tour caddies earn $1,500 to $3,000 weekly. Typically, a caddy gets around 5% of the winnings for finishes outside the top 10. For top 10 finishes but not a win, caddies usually get 6-8%. Winning players might share up to 10% of their prize with their caddy.
Agreements often include negotiations on weekly salary versus tournament earnings and travel and hotel expenses. Some players cover these costs for their caddies, easing the financial burden.
Caddies also boost their income through sponsorships. Although less lucrative than player deals, caddies earn by displaying logos from club manufacturers or apparel brands on their hats or sleeves.
How Pros Select a Caddie?
Choosing a caddie on the PGA Tour often hinges on existing relationships. Many players opt for close friends, coaches, or seasoned caddies seeking new gigs. It’s common to see siblings, spouses, or aspiring pros who haven’t yet made the PGA Tour. These connections, both personal and professional, play a crucial role in the selection process.
What does a PGA caddie do?
PGA caddies are versatile professionals, serving as strategic advisors and mentors to players beyond carrying gear. They meticulously tend to greens, offer psychological support, and influence game outcomes with timely advice.
However, their job is demanding, involving long separations from home and exposure to weather extremes. They can also get caught in controversies, like the defections to the LIV league in 2024 or financial disputes like the “Caddie-Gate” incident involving Matt Kuchar.
These challenges highlight the complexities of their profession and the need for fair treatment within the sport.
Time and Education Requirements
Most caddies work around 30 weeks a year, leaving nearly 40 percent of the year for other jobs or personal time.
More education or experience must be required to become a PGA Tour caddie, allowing many to start right after high school or college. The key is building a reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable caddie.
History of golf caddies
The history of golf caddies originates from Scotland, with the term “caddie” stemming from the French word “cadet.” Its usage broadened, reflecting the Age of Enlightenment’s societal changes.
The 1950s brought the challenge of motorized carts, impacting traditional caddie roles. In the US, caddies faced economic and racial challenges, notably at Augusta National Golf Club.
Augusta’s history reflects racial exclusion, employing Black caddies while barring Black golfers from membership. Despite this, these caddies excelled in their roles.
Fuzzy Zoeller’s praise for his caddie highlights their crucial role in player success. Augusta’s shift to Tour caddies in 1983 marked a significant change, impacting local caddies.
It wasn’t until 1990 that Augusta admitted its first Black member, illustrating the sport’s complex history of race and class.
Frequently Ask Question
Which Caddies Are Making the Most?
In 2021, Justin Thomas’ former caddie, Jimmy Johnson, and Collin Morikawa’s caddie, Jonathan Jakovac, were among the top earners, surpassing $500,000. Historically, Steve Williams, Tiger Woods’ longtime caddie, tops the earnings chart, having made over $12 million while working with Tiger.
Conclusion
In conclusion, to answer the question, “How much do caddies make?” is based on factors such as experience, skill level, and the success of the players they support.
While some PGA caddies may earn substantial incomes, mainly if their players achieve significant victories, many others face challenges such as low pay, sporadic employment, and the competitive nature of the profession.
Despite these hurdles, caddies are invaluable in golfers’ success, offering strategic guidance, emotional support, and essential expertise. Their contributions to the sport extend beyond financial compensation, embodying the spirit of dedication and camaraderie that defines the world of professional golf.
