LPGA Caddie Base Salary and Weekly Pay
LPGA caddies typically earn a base weekly salary that ranges from about $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the player's status and tour schedule. Top caddies working with marquee names often land contracts above $2,500 per week, while newer caddies on smaller events may start closer to the lower end. The LPGA Tour season includes regular events, majors, and limited team competitions, and caddies are usually paid per tournament week rather than per round. Many caddies also receive travel and lodging stipends as part of their agreement, which can add several hundred dollars per event. For a full breakdown of tour logistics and player-caddie relationships, see the official LPGA Tour structure overview at lpga.com.
Bonuses, Percentage of Winnings, and Total Earnings
In addition to a base salary, LPGA caddies commonly receive a percentage of their player's winnings, often ranging from 5% to 10% of official prize money. For a major or a high-profile event, a caddie sharing 7% in a $1 million purse can earn $70,000, which can dwarf the weekly base pay. Players who finish high on the LPGA money list or win multiple events in a season can generate substantial bonus income for their caddies during a single tournament week. Some caddies also negotiate performance incentives tied to top-10 or top-5 finishes, which can push total earnings higher in strong stretches of the season. Detailed payout structures and player-caddie deals are sometimes discussed in professional sports business coverage at forbes.com.
Top LPGA Caddies, Player Partnerships, and Career Earnings
High-Profile Caddie-Player Partnerships
Well-known LPGA caddies often build long-term partnerships with elite players, and those relationships can lead to more stable income and higher bonus rates. Caddies who work with players ranked in the top 10 or 20 of the Women's World Golf Rankings typically command stronger contracts and more consistent tournament weeks. Some caddies have become recognizable figures on tour, known for their course management insights and pre-round preparation routines. These partnerships are frequently highlighted in media coverage of major championships and season-ending awards.
How Caddie Pay Compares Across Tours
Compared with PGA Tour caddies, LPGA caddies generally earn lower base salaries and smaller bonus pools because the total purse sizes on the LPGA Tour are often smaller. However, top LPGA caddies working with marquee names can still achieve six-figure annual earnings when combining base pay, weekly salaries, and tournament bonuses. Caddies who split time between the LPGA and other international tours may adjust their pay expectations based on event purses and local market norms. For broader context on sports earnings and contract structures, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission provides public company filings and investor education at sec.gov.
Factors That Influence LPGA Caddie Pay
Key factors influencing LPGA caddie pay include the player's world ranking, tournament history, media profile, and willingness to share bonus percentages. Caddies with strong relationships with tournament sponsors or media outlets may also negotiate additional appearance or promotional compensation. Experience, knowledge of specific courses, and a track record of helping players score well can justify higher base salaries and larger bonus splits. Aspiring caddies often study current pay trends and player needs to position themselves for higher-paying roles on the LPGA Tour.