Steve Williams was disappointed when the news broke a few weeks ago that he and Tiger Woods' caddy/golfer relationship was ending. He may not feel so disappointed now.
Whilst Woods was off the scene with an injury, Williams picked up casual employment with Queensland golfer Adam Scott. Scott was quick to hire the Kiwi caddy, and that's been a great decision for everyone involved; except Tiger Woods!
Adam Scott has just finished off an emphatic four-shot victory in the prestigious WGC Invitational tournament at the Firestone Country Club at Akron, Ohio. Firestone is one of the US's famous old courses, and is a tough test of golf. Scott started the day with a one-shot lead, and with a final round five-under 65 won with ease, with Williams on the bag and speaking calming words in his ear.
Caddies are paid a percentage of their player's earnings, although elite caddies like Williams are generally on a retainer as well. Williams has made no secret of the fact that the Woods' years were very good for him, and for the community as well, with a lot of money donated to charities via the Steve Williams Foundation. The caddy's cut is normally between five and ten percent of earnings. Adam Scott has just pocketed a cheque for US$1,400,000. Even if Steve Williams was on the five percent rate (and we doubt that he would be), his share of that would be US$70,000.
On the other hand, Tiger Woods finished in a tie for 37th place. His earnings for the week are $58,500, with his expenses (including the caddy's share) to be deducted.
Steve Williams is a terrific bloke. He did a charity fundraiser at our golf club a few years ago where proceeds were split between his Foundation, and our club's junior programme. He made himself many friends that day with his laid-back, unassuming manner, and his willingness to go the extra mile to make the day a success. And as the sun sets over Akron, Ohio tonight, we reckon he'll be reflecting on the irony of a day when his new boss had a magnificent victory, and he ended up with more in his pocket than his former boss.
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