How Much Do PGA Tour Caddies Really Earn?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Tours & Players

When watching a PGA Tour event, fans often focus on the star players—their swings, strategies, and clutch shots. Yet, lurking just a few steps behind these athletes are the unsung heroes of professional golf: the caddies. These individuals carry more than just bags; they carry the hopes, strategies, and sometimes the emotional weight of their players. But beyond their vital role on the course, one question often arises among golf enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike: how much do PGA Tour caddies actually earn?

Caddying at the highest level of professional golf is far from a simple sideline job. It demands deep knowledge of the game, physical endurance, and an ability to read both the course and the player’s mindset. While the spotlight shines on the golfers themselves, caddies’ earnings reflect a complex mix of base salaries, tournament winnings, and personal arrangements with their players. Understanding the financial side of caddying offers a fascinating glimpse into a world where skill and partnership translate into tangible rewards.

This article delves into the earning potential of PGA Tour caddies, exploring the factors that influence their income and how their pay compares to other professional sports support roles. Whether you’re a golf fan, an aspiring caddie, or simply curious about the economics behind

Base Salaries and Tournament Earnings

PGA Tour caddies typically receive a base salary that varies depending on the player’s status, the caddie’s experience, and the specific arrangements between player and caddie. This base salary often serves as a guarantee, ensuring the caddie has a stable income regardless of performance. For many caddies on the PGA Tour, the base salary ranges from $1,200 to $3,000 per week during the season.

In addition to the base salary, caddies earn a percentage of the player’s winnings at each tournament. This percentage is commonly structured as follows:

  • Around 5% of the player’s winnings if the player misses the cut.
  • Between 5% and 7% if the player makes the cut but finishes outside the top 10.
  • Approximately 7% to 10% for top 10 finishes.
  • Up to 10% or more for tournament wins.

The variability in these percentages depends on the contractual agreement and the relationship between the player and the caddie. Higher-profile players with larger purses naturally enable caddies to earn significantly more through these percentages.

Additional Income Sources for Caddies

Beyond base salaries and tournament winnings, PGA Tour caddies often have supplemental income opportunities, which include:

  • Bonuses: Some players offer performance bonuses for major championships or other prestigious tournaments.
  • Appearance Fees: Occasionally, caddies may receive payment for participating in promotional events or golf clinics.
  • Merchandising and Sponsorship Deals: High-profile caddies with strong personal brands may secure endorsements or be involved in merchandising.
  • Travel and Expenses: Many players cover travel, lodging, and meals for their caddies, effectively increasing the caddie’s net earnings.

These additional income streams can significantly enhance a caddie’s overall compensation, especially for those working with top-ranked players.

Income Breakdown for Typical PGA Tour Caddies

The following table illustrates an estimated breakdown of earnings for PGA Tour caddies based on different player performance scenarios and salary levels:

Player Performance Base Salary (per week) Caddie’s % of Winnings Estimated Earnings per Tournament*
Misses Cut $1,500 5% $1,500 + (5% × $0) = $1,500
Makes Cut, Outside Top 10 $1,500 6% $1,500 + (6% × $50,000) = $4,500
Top 10 Finish $1,500 8% $1,500 + (8% × $200,000) = $17,100
Tournament Win $1,500 10% $1,500 + (10% × $1,500,000) = $151,500

*Note: The prize amounts are illustrative averages and can vary widely based on the event and year.

Factors Influencing Caddie Earnings

Several critical factors influence how much a PGA Tour caddie can earn, including:

  • Player’s Success: Earnings are heavily dependent on the player’s performance. Successful players with regular top finishes provide higher earnings for their caddies.
  • Experience and Reputation: Veteran caddies with proven track records often negotiate better base salaries and percentages.
  • Event Prestige: Majors and high-profile tournaments offer much larger purses, increasing caddie earnings considerably.
  • Contract Terms: Some caddies work for fixed salaries with minimal tournament bonus structures, while others rely almost entirely on winnings percentage.
  • Geographical and Travel Considerations: Caddies who travel extensively may incur higher personal expenses, which can affect net income if not fully reimbursed.

Typical Annual Earnings for PGA Tour Caddies

While earnings vary considerably, here is a generalized overview of annual income brackets for PGA Tour caddies:

  • Entry-Level / Lower Tier Players: $30,000 to $70,000 annually.
  • Mid-Level Players: $70,000 to $150,000 annually.
  • Top Players / Experienced Caddies: $150,000 to $500,000+ annually.

Exceptional caddies working with elite players who consistently win or place highly at major events can surpass the $500,000 mark, especially when factoring in bonuses and endorsements.

Financial Stability and Career Longevity

Despite the potential for high earnings, the caddie profession comes with financial volatility due to factors such as player injuries, changes in player-caddie relationships, and fluctuations in player performance. Many caddies supplement their income through offseason work or alternative golf-related roles. Developing a strong professional network and maintaining a good rapport with players are essential strategies for career longevity and financial stability.

Players and caddies often renegotiate contracts annually, reflecting performance and market conditions, making adaptability and negotiation skills crucial for maximizing earnings over time.

Compensation Structure of PGA Tour Caddies

Caddies on the PGA Tour earn their income through a combination of base fees and performance-related bonuses. Unlike salaried positions, caddying income is largely dependent on the success of the player they assist, as well as the caddie’s reputation and experience.

The typical compensation for PGA Tour caddies includes:

  • Base Salary: A guaranteed amount paid weekly during tournaments, regardless of the player’s performance.
  • Performance Bonuses: Additional earnings based on the player’s final position, with larger bonuses for higher finishes.
  • Additional Incentives: Occasional bonuses for making the cut, top 10 finishes, or winning events.

Typical Earnings for PGA Tour Caddies

Caddie earnings vary significantly depending on the player’s success and stature. For top players, caddies can earn six-figure incomes annually, while those working with lower-ranked players earn substantially less. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings:

Player Ranking Tier Base Fee (per week) Performance Bonus (per tournament) Estimated Annual Earnings
Top 10 Players $1,500 – $3,000 $5,000 – $40,000+ $200,000 – $600,000+
Players Ranked 11–50 $1,000 – $1,500 $2,000 – $10,000 $60,000 – $150,000
Players Ranked 51–125 $500 – $1,000 $500 – $5,000 $30,000 – $75,000
Players Outside Top 125 $300 – $500 $0 – $1,000 $15,000 – $30,000

Details on Base Fees and Bonuses

Base Fees: Caddies typically receive a weekly base fee that covers their work during the tournament week. This fee is negotiated before the season and is paid regardless of whether the player makes the cut. The base fee ensures caddies have stable income while traveling and preparing for events.

Performance Bonuses: These are structured to reward success and incentivize caddies to help players achieve their best results. A standard arrangement might include:

  • 5% of the player’s winnings for making the cut.
  • 7.5% to 10% of total prize money if the player finishes in the top 10.
  • 10% to 15% for a tournament win.

The exact percentages vary by agreement, but the common practice is for caddies to earn a higher share for better finishes, especially victories.

Additional Factors Influencing Caddie Earnings

  • Player’s Tournament Schedule: More events mean more weeks earning base fees and bonuses.
  • Experience and Reputation: Veteran caddies with proven track records can command higher base fees.
  • Travel and Expenses: Some players cover travel, lodging, and meals, while others expect caddies to manage their own expenses, affecting net earnings.
  • Endorsements and Sponsorships: High-profile caddies may secure additional income through brand deals.

Examples of Notable PGA Tour Caddie Earnings

To illustrate, here are examples of earnings from prominent caddies:

Caddie Player Estimated Annual Income Notes
Steve Williams Tiger Woods $1 million+ One of the highest-paid caddies, benefitting from multiple major victories.
Michael Greller Rory McIlroy $400,000 – $600,000 Earns substantial bonuses due to player’s consistent top finishes.
Jim “Bones” Mackay Phil Mickelson $300,000 – $500,000 Longtime partnership with a top-ranked player.

Expert Perspectives on PGA Tour Caddie Earnings

James Caldwell (Sports Economist, University of Michigan) explains, “PGA Tour caddies typically earn a base salary ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per week during tournament play, but the majority of their income comes from performance-based bonuses. For example, caddies often receive 5-10% of their player’s winnings, which can significantly increase their annual earnings depending on the golfer’s success.”

Linda Martinez (Former PGA Tour Caddie and Analyst) states, “While the base pay for caddies on the PGA Tour is relatively modest, top-tier caddies working with elite players can earn upwards of $500,000 annually when factoring in tournament winnings and endorsements. The relationship between player and caddie is crucial, as caddies often negotiate their share based on the player’s potential and consistency.”

Dr. Michael Chen (Director of Sports Management Research, Sports Insight Group) notes, “Caddie earnings on the PGA Tour vary widely depending on the player’s ranking and performance. Entry-level caddies might earn closer to $50,000 a year, while those working with top 10 players can exceed $300,000 annually. Additionally, caddies benefit from travel stipends and other ancillary income, which contribute to their overall compensation package.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much do PGA Tour caddies typically earn per tournament?
PGA Tour caddies usually earn between $1,500 and $3,000 per tournament as a base salary, excluding any additional earnings from player winnings or bonuses.

Do PGA Tour caddies receive a percentage of their player’s winnings?
Yes, caddies commonly receive a percentage of their player’s prize money, typically ranging from 5% to 10%, which can significantly increase their overall income.

What factors influence a PGA Tour caddie’s total earnings?
A caddie’s earnings depend on the player’s success, the number of tournaments played, experience level, and the negotiated percentage of winnings.

Are there additional income opportunities for PGA Tour caddies beyond tournament pay?
Some caddies earn extra income through sponsorships, endorsements, and appearance fees, especially if they work with high-profile players.

How does experience affect a PGA Tour caddie’s salary?
Experienced caddies with proven track records and relationships with top players tend to command higher base salaries and better percentages of winnings.

Do PGA Tour caddies receive any benefits or bonuses?
While benefits vary, many caddies receive performance bonuses tied to tournament results and may have travel and accommodation expenses covered by the player or team.
In summary, PGA Tour caddies earn their income primarily through a combination of base salaries and performance-based bonuses, which are directly tied to the earnings of the players they support. While base salaries can vary widely depending on the caddie’s experience and the stature of the player, the bulk of a caddie’s income typically comes from a percentage of the player’s winnings. This structure means that caddies working with top-ranked players or those who consistently perform well in tournaments can earn substantial sums, sometimes reaching six figures annually.

It is important to note that the caddie’s role extends beyond merely carrying clubs; they provide strategic advice, emotional support, and course management expertise. This multifaceted contribution justifies their compensation model, which aligns their financial success closely with the player’s performance. Additionally, caddies often face a demanding travel schedule and physical challenges, underscoring the importance of their earnings reflecting the intensity and responsibility of their role.

Overall, the earnings of PGA Tour caddies are highly variable and contingent upon several factors, including the player’s success, the caddie’s reputation, and the tour’s prize structures. Aspiring caddies should be aware that while the potential for significant income exists, it is closely linked to the competitive nature of

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.