Caddies are hard workers and should be treated as such by the golf community. They are part of why we enjoy streaming golf action on our screens. A caddie does more than carry the bag and clean clubs for a golfer. Caddies offer psychological support to our favorite players, advise them on club selection and appropriate shots, measure yardages, read the greens and surroundings, and even act as security guards when some fans get unruly. It’s no wonder that pro golfers hold on to their favorite caddies for many years as they win trophies.
Best Ten Caddies of All Time
Steve Williams
At age 10, the legendary Steve Williams had already begun offering caddie duties in his hometown, landing his first professional aged 13 for the Australian star Peter Thomson. Steve then decorated his resume by caddying for Greg Norman and Raymond Floyd before landing the life-changing opportunity of his career as Tiger Woods’ caddy from 1999 to 2011. The pair won a record 13 majors together before Williams switched to caddying for Adam Scott and helped him secure the 2013 Masters.
Freddie Bennett
Caddie Hall of Fame inductee Freddie Bennett is one of the best caddying gems the Augusta National Golf Club has ever produced. Bennett started his career here, rising to become the club’s caddie manager in 1953, where he mentored countless caddies such as Tripp Bowden. He retired in 2000 after 40 years of incredible caddying service.
Angelo Argea
Golf legend Jack Nicklaus has Angelo Argea to credit for about 70 PGA Tour wins and several major wins, having been his caddy from 1963 to 1982. Rumor has it that Argea’s main job wasn’t just carrying Nicklaus’ bag but saying the right things to him throughout the round. The legendary caddie’s efforts earned him a spot in the Caddie Hall of Fame in 1999.
Jim “Bones” Mackay
Bones is a legend with names like Curtis Strange, Larry Mize, and Scott Simpson on his belt, but the most notable one is Phil Mickelson. Mackay and Mickelson were the ultimate golf power couple between 1992 and 2017, where they won over 40 PGA Tour wins and secured five major championships. Mackay earned his spot in the Caddie Hall of Fame in 2017.
Mike “Fluff” Cowan
Mr. Mustache Mike Cowan is another titan in the caddying profession, having caddied for Peter Jacobsen from 1978 to 1996 and helping him achieve 6 PGA Tour wins. From 1996 to 1999, Fluff was behind Tiger Woods’ takeoff, notably helping him win the 1997 Masters. Cowan joined the Caddie Hall of Fame in 1999 and finished his career as Jim Furyk’s caddie.