Tiger Woods’ former caddie’s net worth speaks volumes about the golf star
Steve Williams, a renowned former caddie of golf legend Tiger Woods, is celebrated not only for his pivotal role in Woods’ extraordinary career but also for his impressive financial success. Williams, hailing from New Zealand, served as Woods’ trusted caddie for a notable twelve-year period from 1999 to 2011. During these years, he accumulated a substantial fortune, with reports estimating his net worth at £15.7 million (approximately $20 million). His wealth was significantly bolstered by his association with Woods, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time.
Woods, who has made an indelible mark on the sport, holds the record for the most PGA Tour victories, with 82 titles to his name—nine more than the legendary Jack Nicklaus. Over his illustrious 28-year career, Woods has amassed a staggering £94.2 million (around $120 million), making him the highest-earning golfer in the history of the PGA Tour. His success on the greens and his remarkable earnings underscore the significant financial impact of his career.
Williams’ professional journey, however, did not end with Woods. Following his tenure with the golf icon, Williams continued to make his mark in the sport by working with other notable golfers. His post-Woods career included stints with Adam Scott, a prominent golfer who first employed Williams from 2011 to 2017, and again in 2022 and 2023. Additionally, Williams briefly collaborated with Jason Day in 2019. Despite these new partnerships, the transition from Woods to other golfers marked a turning point in Williams’ career.
The end of Williams’ long-standing association with Woods was marked by a dramatic and public fallout. The turning point came during the 2011 U.S. Open, a significant event in the golfing calendar. At that time, Woods was sidelined due to an injury, and Williams sought approval from Woods to caddie for Scott in his absence. Initially, Woods consented to this arrangement. However, after reconsidering, Woods reversed his decision, creating a difficult situation for Williams.
Williams recounted the situation in a candid discussion with CBS, providing insight into the complexities of the decision-making process. He explained that, upon learning of Woods’ injury, Scott reached out to him, expecting his support at the U.S. Open. Williams initially received Woods’ approval to work with Scott, but as the tournament approached, Woods changed his mind. This reversal left Williams in a challenging position, as he had already committed to Scott and was unwilling to back out of his promise.
“I wasn’t prepared to ring Adam up and say I can’t do it. I’m a man of my word,” Williams said. His commitment to keeping his word and his dedication to fulfilling his obligations were evident in his decision. He did not anticipate the severe repercussions of his actions. Unfortunately, after the U.S. Open, Woods informed Williams that their professional relationship had come to an end. The termination of their partnership was abrupt and straightforward, with Woods citing the incident as the reason for the split.
Despite the end of his tenure with Woods, Williams’ career continued to evolve as he took on new roles within the golfing world. His experiences with Scott and Day demonstrated his enduring expertise and ability to adapt to new circumstances. Nevertheless, the end of his relationship with Woods remains a notable chapter in his professional life, marked by a significant and public dispute that highlighted the complexities and pressures inherent in the world of professional sports.
