Highest Paid Caddies in Professional Golf
The highest paid caddies earn most of their income through a base salary plus a percentage of the golfer's winnings, often 5 to 10 percent of a tournament purse. Top caddies also receive bonuses for major victories and consistent top finishes, which can push annual earnings well above one million dollars. Forbes and Golf Digest have reported that elite caddies at the PGA Tour level regularly rank among the highest paid sports support staff in the world Forbes.
The biggest earners usually work with star golfers who contend in multiple events each season, because more starts mean more opportunities for paychecks. Major championship wins dramatically increase a caddy's take, since the percentage applies to the full purse and often triggers additional bonuses. This structure rewards long-term partnerships and close collaboration between player and caddy ESPN.
Top 10 Highest Paid Caddies of All Time
1. Joe LaCava
Earnings and Career Highlights
Joe LaCava is widely regarded as one of the highest paid caddies in golf history, having worked with Tiger Woods and later Dustin Johnson. His long tenure with dominant players and multiple major wins have helped him build a multi-million dollar career through salary and winnings shares PGA Tour.
2. Ted Scott
Earnings and Career Highlights
Ted Scott earned a reputation as one of the most trusted caddies on tour while working closely with Dustin Johnson, contributing to multiple PGA Tour victories and a major championship. His role in Johnson's rise to world number one status helped secure a highly lucrative compensation package.
3. Joe Cobb
Earnings and Career Highlights
Joe Cobb served as the caddie for Justin Thomas during his rise to prominence, including a PGA Championship win and multiple other tour victories. His steady presence and course-management support have made him one of the highest paid caddies associated with a current top player.
4. Mike "Fluff" Cowan
Earnings and Career Highlights
Mike "Fluff" Cowan is one of the most recognizable caddies in golf, best known for his long partnership with Jim Furyk. His decades of experience on tour and involvement in numerous wins have placed him among the top earners in caddie history.
5. Steve Williams
Earnings and Career Highlights
Steve Williams gained fame as Tiger Woods' caddie during a period of historic dominance, including 13 major victories. After their split, he continued to earn significant income with other players, reinforcing his status as one of the highest paid caddies ever.
6. Andrew "Chubbs" Johnston
Earnings and Career Highlights
Andrew "Chubbs" Johnston has been a key figure alongside Jordan Spieth, playing a central role in Spieth's major wins and consistent top finishes. His deep knowledge of Spieth's game and course strategy has helped secure a high earning position on tour.
7. Brian Davis
Earnings and Career Highlights
Brian Davis has built a strong reputation as a caddie for multiple PGA Tour players, earning respect for his course-reading skills and calm demeanor under pressure. His work with consistent contenders has translated into steady, high-level compensation.
8. Mark "Wheels" Wilson
Earnings and Career Highlights
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