LIV golfer announces emotional split with longtime caddie
They say that all good things must come to an end, and for Kevin Na, this conclusion is particularly poignant. The 40-year-old golfer, who has been making headlines with his participation in the breakaway LIV Golf League, has recently announced a significant change in his professional life: he is parting ways with his longtime caddie, Kenny Harms, after 16 years of partnership.
The announcement came via social media, where Na expressed his deep emotions about the split. Harms has been a steadfast presence on Na’s bag throughout the ups and downs of his career. Their final victory together was at the 2021 Sony Open in Hawaii, a significant moment that marked the culmination of their journey together in the PGA Tour. Following Na’s transition to LIV Golf in June 2022, Harms continued to support him, caddying for Na in all 33 of his LIV starts.
Na took to Instagram to share his feelings, stating, “It has been an incredible run! 16 years together, you have always been there for me on and off the golf course. We have shared many amazing moments and also had some hardships along the way.” His message conveyed not only gratitude but also the emotional weight of this separation. “I can’t thank you enough for the trust and support you have given me. It’s been extremely difficult to say goodbye. You will always be a brother to me.”
Their bond extended beyond the typical player-caddie relationship. In fact, Na’s appreciation for Harms was so profound that he hinted at a significant financial reward for his caddie. In 2019, after securing a win at the Charles Schwab Challenge, Na remarked that Harms might earn a higher percentage than most caddies on tour. “You know what? Wouldn’t surprise me if he’s the highest percentage paid caddie out here,” Na said candidly. “I’m being dead serious. You can ask him. He won’t tell you the number, but he gets a good check, a lot more than the average.” This statement highlighted not only the financial but also the personal significance of their partnership.
As of now, it remains uncertain who will take over Harms’ role as Na’s caddie. The LIV Golf League’s final individual event of the season is set to take place in Chicago from September 13 to 15, with the Team Championship finale following in Dallas the subsequent week. The change in caddies comes at a crucial time as Na prepares for these concluding events of the season.
In summary, the end of Kevin Na and Kenny Harms’ 16-year collaboration marks a poignant chapter in both their careers. Their journey together has been filled with significant achievements and deep personal connections, making this separation a particularly emotional moment for both.
