PGA Caddie Pay Structure and Base Salary
PGA Tour caddies typically earn a base salary that ranges from about $1,000 to $2,000 per tournament week, with top caddies negotiating higher guarantees. This base covers travel and lodging support, while the real earnings upside comes from bonuses tied to player performance and tournament purse shares Forbes.
Weekly and Per-Tournament Earnings Breakdown
In addition to the weekly base, caddies often receive a percentage of the player's winnings, commonly between 5% and 10% of the tournament purse when the player finishes high Forbes. Strong finishes at major championships and signature events can push a caddie's single-week earnings well above the baseline, especially for caddies paired with marquee names.
Top PGA Caddies and Highest Earning Partnerships
The highest-paid caddies work with consistent top-10 players and major winners, earning seven-figure annual totals through combined base pay, bonuses, and percentage cuts of tournament winnings Forbes. These elite partnerships often include performance incentives, appearance fees, and long-term contracts tied to the player's tour status and sponsorship deals.
Notable Caddie-Player Pairings and Pay Examples
Well-known caddie-player duos such as those working with players like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy command premium pay because of sustained top finishes and major championship contention Forbes. Their compensation reflects the player's world ranking, FedEx Cup position, and the commercial value the caddie brings to the team's public and sponsor image.
How PGA Caddies Earn Beyond Tournament Pay
Many PGA caddies earn additional income through appearance fees, corporate events, and personal brand partnerships, especially if they work with high-profile players Forbes. Some caddies also receive bonuses tied to Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, and other team event appearances, which can add significant lump sums to their annual earnings.
Contract Types, Sponsorships, and Long-Term Earnings
Caddie contracts vary from short-term tournament deals to multi-year agreements with built-in escalators for majors, FedEx Cup milestones, and world number one finishes Forbes. Top caddies may also negotiate a share of their player's off-course earnings, such as equipment and apparel deals, where the caddie's role in club fitting and on-course performance is explicitly credited.