The Lucrative Earnings of Winning Caddies at The Players Championship
In the world of professional golf, caddies play an indispensable role, offering not just physical support but also strategic guidance on the course.Their compensation is a testament to their value, especially during premier events like The Players Championship.
Understanding Caddie Compensation
Caddies typically receive two primary forms of income: a base weekly salary and performance-based bonuses.
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Top 10 Finish (Outside Top 3):Caddies earn 5% of the golfer’s prize money.
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Top 10 Finish (Top 3):The bonus increases to 7%.
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Victory:Caddies receive 10% of the winner’s purse.
For instance, at The Players Championship, where the winner’s purse is $4.5 million, a caddie would earn $450,000 if their golfer clinched the title.
Case Study: Ted Scott’s Earnings
Ted Scott, the caddie for world number one Scottie Scheffler, exemplifies the potential earnings at such high-stakes tournaments.In 2024, Scott’s earnings were substantial, with reports suggesting he amassed approximately $5.3 million, surpassing the earnings of many PGA Tour players, including Rory McIlroy.
Memorable Moments and Additional Earnings
Beyond standard earnings, caddies have unique opportunities to shine.At The Players Championship, a tradition allows caddies to compete in a closest-to-the-pin contest at the iconic 17th hole before the main event.In 2025, JJ Jakovac, caddie for Collin Morikawa, made history by achieving a hole-in-one from 131 yards, earning a $13,000 prize.He generously donated this amount to charity, highlighting the camaraderie and spirit within the golfing community.
The Financial Impact of Major Wins
Major victories significantly boost a caddie’s earnings.For example, at The Masters, with a winner’s purse of $3.6 million, the caddie of the champion would receive $360,000.In 2024, Ted Scott’s earnings were bolstered by Scheffler’s impressive performance, including multiple wins and top finishes, underscoring the financial rewards tied to a golfer’s success.
Conclusion
The symbiotic relationship between golfers and their caddies is built on trust, expertise, and shared goals.While the financial rewards are substantial, they reflect the critical role caddies play in a golfer’s journey, especially during prestigious events like The Players Championship.
