The 48-year-old golf legend Tiger Woods had two notable caddies in his career, Steve Williams and Joe LaCava. Both of them are estimated to have made millions working with Woods.
Born December 30, 1975, Tiger Woods is an iconic American golfer widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in history.
Turning professional in 1996, Woods rapidly ascended to global prominence, winning the 1997 Masters by a record 12 strokes and becoming world number one within a year.
Moreover, he dominated golf in the 2000s, holding the top ranking for an unprecedented 683 weeks overall and securing 15 major championships, second only to Jack Nicklaus.
Woods achieved a career Grand Slam three times and tied the record for PGA Tour wins (82) alongside Sam Snead.
However, despite immense success, Woods faced significant personal and professional challenges.
A 2009 scandal involving infidelity and a public divorce marked his fall from grace, coupled with injuries requiring four back surgeries by 2017.
Between 2015 and 2018, he played sparingly, dropping outside the top 1,000 golfers globally.
Nevertheless, his triumphant comeback peaked with his 2019 Masters win, his first major in 11 years.
Woods holds numerous records, including 18 World Golf Championships and 11 PGA Player of the Year titles.
Woods curtailed his career after a severe 2021 car accident, focusing on selected tournaments, including his 2022 return at the Masters.
Following Tiger Woods Success, His Caddies Also Became Successful
Tiger Woods’ caddies have earned significant sums over the years, reflecting the immense success of his career and the lucrative nature of professional golf.
Two of his most notable caddies, Steve Williams and Joe LaCava, have each benefited greatly from their partnerships with the legendary golfer.
Steve Williams, Woods’ caddie from 1999 to 2011, was a critical part of Woods’ success during his prime.
As a caddie for Tiger Woods, Williams reportedly earned around $8.8 million during their 12-year partnership.
Caddies typically receive about 10% of a player’s earnings from tournaments, meaning Williams’ income was directly tied to Woods’ massive winnings, including 13 major championships and numerous other titles.
Williams’ highest earnings in a single year with Woods came in 2007, when he made over $1 million due to Woods’ exceptional season earnings of $10.8 million.
Steve Williams had a prominent career with Woods.
He contributed to 13 major championships and 63 PGA Tour victories between 1999 and 2011.
However, their professional relationship ended abruptly.
This shocked the golfing world and showed the often tenuous dynamics between athletes and their teams.
Williams’ dismissal came in 2011, following Woods’ struggles with injuries and personal issues.
At the time, Woods was taking an extended break from golf, leaving Williams with limited opportunities to work.
During this hiatus, Williams sought and received Woods’ permission to caddie temporarily for Adam Scott, a rising star.
However, despite this agreement, Woods eventually decided to sever ties with Williams.
He cited a need to make changes as part of his comeback strategy.
Williams expressed disappointment with the decision, feeling blindsided after more than a decade of loyalty and success.
Furthermore, he publicly described his dismissal as “shocking” and later admitted feeling disrespected.
Joe LaCava then took over as Woods’ caddie in 2011.
He was a steady presence through Woods’ highs and lows.
He was Woods’ caddie during his remarkable comeback to win the 2019 Masters.
Joe LaCava served as Tiger Woods’ caddie from 2011 to 2023.
During this time, Woods won 12 tournaments, including the 2019 Masters.
While specific earnings figures for LaCava are less widely reported, it is estimated that he has also earned millions during his tenure.
The 2019 Masters, for example, had a winner’s prize of $2.07 million, earning LaCava approximately $207,000 for that tournament alone.
Furthermore, across Woods’ 12 victories, including other high-stakes events, LaCava likely earned millions in percentages from winnings.
In addition to percentages of tournament earnings, caddies often receive bonuses for major wins, further boosting their income.
Ultimately, in May 2023, Tiger Woods and Joe LaCava ended their partnership.
LaCava moved on to caddie full-time for Patrick Cantlay.
Tiger Woods Has Partnered With A Veteran Caddie Now
Tiger Woods partners with Lance Bennet as his caddie.
Lance Bennett’s exact earnings as Tiger Woods’ caddie at The Masters are unknown.
However, standard rates include a $2,000 weekly base salary and 7-10% of the player’s winnings.
Given Woods’ iconic status and unique circumstances, Bennett’s compensation may be higher than typical rates.
Woods’ success on the golf course has not only made him one of the wealthiest athletes but also elevated his caddies into top earners within their field.
Their roles go beyond carrying a bag; they offer strategic advice, emotional support, and a steady hand under pressure.
Thus, this makes their contributions invaluable to Woods’ legendary career.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In 2019, Tiger Woods received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
- Tiger Woods was raised as a Buddhist.
