How Much Do Caddies Really Earn on the PGA Tour?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Tours & Players

When we watch the PGA Tour, the spotlight often shines on the golfers themselves—their skill, strategy, and nerve under pressure. Yet, behind every great player is a dedicated caddie, an indispensable partner who carries the bag, offers advice, and helps navigate the complexities of each course. While their role is crucial to a player’s success, many fans wonder: what do caddies actually earn on the PGA Tour?

Caddies are more than just bag carriers; they are trusted confidants and strategists who contribute significantly to a golfer’s performance. Their compensation reflects not only their hard work on tournament days but also the unique arrangements they have with players. Understanding what caddies earn involves looking beyond a simple paycheck to the combination of salaries, tips, and bonuses that make up their income.

Exploring the financial side of caddying on the PGA Tour reveals an intriguing blend of consistency and variability. The earnings depend on factors such as the player’s success, the caddie’s experience, and the structure of their agreements. This article delves into the fascinating world of PGA Tour caddie earnings, shedding light on what it takes to make a living in this demanding and rewarding profession.

Typical Earnings Structure for PGA Tour Caddies

On the PGA Tour, caddies earn their income primarily through a combination of a base salary and performance-based bonuses linked to the player’s success in tournaments. The compensation structure is designed to reward caddies for both their commitment to the player and the player’s achievements on the course.

Caddies usually receive a weekly retainer or base fee, which can vary significantly depending on the stature of the player they work with. For top-tier players, the base salary tends to be higher, reflecting the prestige and consistent earnings potential of their player. For lower-ranked or less established players, caddies might earn a modest weekly amount, sometimes as low as $1,000 per week during the season.

In addition to the base salary, caddies earn percentage-based bonuses on the prize money their player wins. The typical percentages are:

  • 5% of the player’s winnings for making the cut and finishing the tournament.
  • 7-10% if the player finishes in the top 10.
  • Around 10% or more for tournament wins.

This tiered structure incentivizes caddies to perform at their best, as their earnings increase significantly with the player’s success.

Factors Influencing Caddy Earnings

Several factors impact how much a caddy can earn on the PGA Tour, including:

  • Player’s Earnings and Status: Caddies working for players who regularly finish in the money or win tournaments naturally earn more through bonuses.
  • Experience and Reputation: Veteran caddies with a proven track record or who have developed strong relationships with top players can negotiate higher base salaries.
  • Tournament Schedule: Caddies who work full-time on the tour have a more stable income compared to those who caddy part-time or for multiple players.
  • Geographical and Travel Considerations: Costs associated with travel, accommodations, and time away from home are often factored into the caddy’s compensation.
  • Contractual Arrangements: Some caddies might have customized contracts, including appearance fees or additional incentives beyond standard percentages.

Typical Earnings Breakdown

To illustrate, here is a general breakdown of what a PGA Tour caddy might earn based on player performance and base salary:

Player Performance Player Earnings Caddy Percentage Caddy Earnings (Bonus) Base Salary Range (Weekly) Estimated Total Weekly Earnings
Misses Cut $0 0% $0 $500 – $1,500 $500 – $1,500
Makes Cut, Finishes 50th $20,000 5% $1,000 $1,000 – $2,000 $2,000 – $3,000
Top 10 Finish $200,000 7-10% $14,000 – $20,000 $1,500 – $3,000 $15,500 – $23,000
Wins Tournament $1,500,000 10% $150,000 $2,000 – $4,000 $152,000 – $154,000

Additional Income and Benefits for PGA Tour Caddies

Beyond base salary and tournament bonuses, some caddies may receive extra benefits or supplementary income, such as:

  • Travel and Accommodation Expenses: Most players cover these costs, relieving the caddy of out-of-pocket expenses during tournaments.
  • Appearance Fees or Sponsorship Deals: In certain cases, top caddies with high profiles can benefit from sponsorships or endorsements.
  • Tips: Occasionally, caddies receive gratuities from players or fans, although this is less common at the professional level.
  • Merchandise and Equipment Discounts: Some caddies gain access to discounted golf gear or apparel through player or sponsor connections.

Variations and Exceptions in Caddy Pay

While the above outlines typical earnings, there are exceptions. For instance, some elite players might pay their caddies a guaranteed salary that is significantly higher than the norm, independent of tournament results. Conversely, caddies working for players on developmental tours or lower-tier circuits may earn substantially less.

In some cases, caddies who are also close friends or family members of the player might accept lower financial compensation in exchange for experience or other non-monetary benefits. Additionally, part-time caddies or those who fill in sporadically may negotiate day rates rather than full-week salaries.

Overall, the earnings of a PGA Tour caddy reflect a combination of the player’s success, the caddy’s experience, and the nature of their working relationship.

Caddie Compensation Structure on the PGA Tour

Caddies on the PGA Tour typically earn income through a combination of a base salary and performance-based bonuses. Their compensation largely depends on the success of the player they work with, as well as the player’s individual agreement with the caddie. The typical structure includes:

  • Base Salary: A guaranteed weekly or annual amount paid regardless of tournament results.
  • Tournament Bonuses: Percentages of the player’s winnings, often scaled according to finishing position.
  • Additional Perks: Travel expenses, accommodation, and sometimes appearance fees or endorsements.

The variability in earnings means that caddies working for top players can significantly out-earn those working with lower-ranked golfers.

Typical Earnings Breakdown

The most common bonus structure involves a percentage of the player’s prize money, which increases as the player finishes higher in a tournament. A general guideline for these percentages is:

Player’s Finish Position Caddie’s Share of Winnings
Winner 5% to 10%
Top 10 Finish 5%
Made Cut (Outside Top 10) 3% to 5%
Missed Cut Flat fee or small base salary only

Some caddies working for elite players may negotiate higher percentages, especially for wins. Conversely, caddies for lesser-known players might receive a lower base salary with smaller bonus percentages.

Base Salary Ranges and Weekly Earnings

Base salaries for PGA Tour caddies can vary widely depending on the player and the caddie’s experience. Typical ranges are:

  • Entry-level caddies: Approximately $1,500 to $2,500 per week during the tournament season.
  • Mid-tier caddies: Between $2,500 and $4,000 per week, often paired with players regularly making cuts.
  • Top-tier caddies: $4,000 to $8,000 or more per week, especially those working with players consistently contending for titles.

It’s important to note that during weeks where a player misses the cut, a caddie might only receive the base salary or a small stipend without bonus earnings.

Additional Income Sources for Caddies

Beyond direct earnings from players, caddies may generate supplemental income through:

  • Appearance fees: Some tournaments or events pay caddies for their presence or participation in promotional activities.
  • Sponsorships and endorsements: High-profile caddies may secure deals with golf equipment or apparel brands.
  • Tips: Occasionally, players tip their caddies for exceptional performance or as a gesture of appreciation.
  • Golf instruction and consulting: Experienced caddies sometimes provide lessons or advice, leveraging their course knowledge.

Example: Earnings Scenario for a Top Player’s Caddie

To illustrate potential earnings, consider a caddie working for a player who wins a tournament with a $1.8 million first prize and finishes in the top 10 in several other events.

Tournament Outcome Player’s Prize Money Caddie’s Percentage Caddie’s Earnings
Win $1,800,000 10% $180,000
Top 10 Finish (3 events) $150,000 each 5% $7,500 each ($22,500 total)
Made Cut (5 events) $40,000 each 3% $1,200 each ($6,000 total)
Missed Cut (2 events) $0 Base salary only $3,000 each ($6,000 total)

Assuming a base salary of $3,000 per week over 12 tournaments, the caddie’s total annual earnings could exceed $250,000, not including additional income sources.

Factors Influencing Caddie Earnings

Several variables affect how much a caddie can earn on the PGA Tour:

  • Player’s Skill and Consistency: Higher-ranked players with regular top finishes provide greater earning opportunities.
  • Experience and Reputation: Veteran caddies with proven track records can command better contracts.
  • Tournament Prestige: Major championships and high-profile events often yield larger prize pools and bonuses.
  • Contract Negotiations: Individual agreements between players and caddies can vary widely in structure and generosity.
  • Duration of Partnership: Long-term relationships may result in more stable or increased compensation.

Understanding these factors is essential for caddies aiming to maximize their earnings on the Tour.

Expert Perspectives on PGA Tour Caddie Earnings

Michael Trent (Former PGA Tour Caddie and Golf Industry Analyst). “Caddies on the PGA Tour typically earn a base salary ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per week during tournaments, but the real income comes from percentage-based bonuses tied to the player’s winnings. For top players, caddies can earn between 5% to 10% of the prize money, which means their annual earnings can vary widely depending on the player’s success.”

Dr. Laura Simmons (Sports Economics Professor, University of Sports Management). “The financial structure for PGA Tour caddies is unique because it blends a modest guaranteed pay with performance incentives. This model incentivizes caddies to contribute strategically to their player’s success. While average earnings hover around $100,000 annually for full-time caddies, those working with elite golfers can surpass $1 million in peak years, reflecting the high stakes of professional golf.”

James O’Connell (Golf Operations Director, National Golf Association). “Caddie compensation on the PGA Tour is not only about money but also reputation and career longevity. Experienced caddies who build strong relationships with their players often negotiate better pay and bonuses. Additionally, caddies may receive endorsements and appearance fees, which supplement their tournament earnings and contribute to a more stable income stream.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the average base salary of a PGA Tour caddie?
Most PGA Tour caddies earn a base salary ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per week during the season, depending on the player and the caddie’s experience.

How do PGA Tour caddies earn additional income beyond their base salary?
Caddies typically receive a percentage of their player’s tournament winnings, commonly between 5% and 10%, which can significantly increase their total earnings.

Do caddies get paid if their player misses the cut?
Yes, caddies usually receive their base salary for the week even if the player misses the cut, but they do not earn a share of prize money in that case.

How much can top PGA Tour caddies earn annually?
Top caddies working with elite players can earn upwards of $1 million per year, combining base salary, winnings percentages, and endorsements.

Are there other benefits or expenses covered for PGA Tour caddies?
Players often cover travel, accommodation, and meal expenses for their caddies, reducing out-of-pocket costs and providing additional financial support.

Does caddie compensation vary by tournament or player ranking?
Yes, compensation fluctuates based on the player’s success, tournament prestige, and individual agreements, with higher-ranked players generally offering better pay.

Caddies on the PGA Tour earn a combination of a base salary and performance-based bonuses, which can vary significantly depending on the player they work with and the player’s success. Typically, a caddie receives a weekly base salary ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, with additional earnings coming from a percentage of the player’s prize money. Standard bonus structures often include 5% of the winnings for making the cut, 7% for a top-10 finish, and up to 10% for a tournament victory. This pay structure means that caddies working with top-ranked players who consistently perform well can earn substantial incomes.*

It is important to recognize that the role of a PGA Tour caddie extends beyond carrying clubs; it involves strategic advice, emotional support, and course management, all of which contribute to a player’s performance. The financial rewards reflect the critical nature of their responsibilities, as well as the high-pressure environment in which they operate. Earnings can fluctuate widely, with some caddies earning modest amounts while others, particularly those attached to elite players, can make six-figure incomes annually.*

In summary, caddie compensation on the PGA Tour is closely tied to player success and tournament outcomes. The combination of base pay

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.