How Much Do PGA Tour Caddies Earn
PGA Tour caddies typically earn a base salary of $1,000 to $2,000 per tournament week, with the exact amount negotiated between the player and caddie based on experience and tour status. Top caddies on the PGA Tour often earn $3,000 or more per week in base pay, especially when working with high-profile players who can afford higher guarantees. Many caddies also receive a small travel stipend to cover lodging and meals during tournament weeks, which is separate from the base salary. This structure is confirmed by player and caddie interviews reported by Forbes, which outlines the standard financial framework on the PGA Tour how much do PGA caddies make.
Beyond the base salary, PGA Tour caddies earn a percentage of the player's winnings, typically ranging from 5% to 10% of the player's check. For a major championship win, this commission can translate to six-figure earnings for the caddie, depending on the agreed percentage. The commission structure is the primary way caddies earn the bulk of their income during a season, incentivizing them to help their players perform at the highest level. The PGA Tour does not set a universal commission rate, so each player-caddie pair negotiates their own split, which is often detailed in their contract caddie pay PGA Tour.
PGA Caddy Pay Breakdown by Tournament Type
Regular PGA Tour Events
At regular PGA Tour events, caddies earn the weekly base salary plus any commission from the player's finish. A top-10 finish can generate meaningful bonus money for the caddie if the contract includes performance incentives. The total compensation for a caddie at a regular event typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000 for a strong finish, with the base salary forming the consistent floor. Caddies also benefit from the player's appearance fees and sponsor bonuses when applicable, though these are less common for most events.
Major Championships and World Golf Championships
At major championships and World Golf Championships, the prize money is significantly higher, which amplifies the caddie's commission earnings. A caddie whose player wins a major can earn a substantial payout, often exceeding $200,000 in commission alone at the current prize structure. The base salary for these events is usually the same as for regular tour stops, but the potential upside from the commission is much greater. These events also carry additional prestige, which can strengthen the player-caddie partnership and lead to longer-term contracts with better financial terms.
Top PGA Caddies and Their Earnings
Highest-Earning Caddies on the PGA Tour
The highest-earning PGA Tour caddies work with the tour's top-ranked players and command the strongest base salaries and commission splits. Caddies like Joe LaCava and Andrew "Chubbs" Sullivan have earned widespread recognition for their long partnerships with major champions and world number one players. These top caddies can earn several million dollars in a single season when their players win multiple tournaments and finish high at majors. Their earnings reflect the direct financial impact they have on their players' success, which is a key factor in the player-caddie negotiation process how much PGA