How much did Tiger Woods caddie make?

By Indra Gunawan April 11, 2024 13:51

Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images

Tiger Woods, one of the most successful golfers in history, has had a remarkable career marked by numerous victories, including 15 major championships.

Behind his success, the role of his caddies cannot be overlooked.

Over the years, Woods has had several caddies, each playing a pivotal role in his career. With that being said, this Fan Arch feature delves into the earnings of Tiger Woods' caddies, providing a comprehensive analysis of the compensation received by these key individuals.

The Customary Amount

Tiger Woods, like most professional golfers, does not publicly disclose the exact amount he pays his caddies.

But it is customary for caddies to receive between 5% and 10% of the golfer's earnings on the course, in addition to an annual salary.

Notably, most of Tiger's earnings come from endorsements, but he still earns a substantial amount from his performances on the golf course.

Caddie Earnings Over the Years

Mike “Fluff” Cowan

Tiger Woods' first caddie, Mike “Fluff” Cowan, had a successful partnership with Woods, resulting in seven PGA Tour wins and one major championship between August 1996 and February 1999.

The exact earnings of Cowan during this period are not disclosed, it can be inferred that he received a significant portion of Woods' earnings during these victories.

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Steve Williams

Steve Williams, arguably Tiger Woods' most successful caddie, had a remarkable tenure with Woods from March 1999 to July 2011.

During this time, the pair achieved an astounding 63 PGA tour wins, including 13 major championships.

Considering the customary 5% to 10% rate, Williams' earnings from this period likely amounted to a substantial sum, reflecting the magnitude of their success.

Joe LaCava

Since September 2011, Joe LaCava has been Tiger Woods' caddie. Over their tenure, LaCava and Woods have secured 11 tournament victories, including a memorable win at the 2019 edition of The Masters. T

Analysis of Caddie Earnings

Based on Woods' earnings of roughly $26.7 million on the golf course between 2011 and 2024, it can be estimated that Joe LaCava most likely made between $1.33 million and $2.67 million during that time.

This translates to an annual earning of approximately $120,000 to $240,000, excluding endorsements and an undisclosed annual salary.

Steve Williams, with 63 tournament wins and 13 majors, also earned a substantial amount during his tenure as Woods' caddie.

While the exact figures remain undisclosed, the magnitude of their success suggests that Williams' earnings were considerable.

Ultimately, the earnings of Tiger Woods' caddies have been substantial, reflecting the immense success and prize money that Woods has amassed throughout his career.

While specific figures are not publicly disclosed, the customary percentage of earnings for caddies, combined with Woods' prolific performances, indicates that his caddies have received significant compensation for their integral role in his success.