What Is Steve Williams’ Net Worth?

Steve Williams, a New Zealand native and renowned professional golf caddie, has accumulated a **net worth** estimated at $20 million. This substantial wealth is primarily attributed to his successful career caddying for some of the world’s most prominent golfers, most notably his long and fruitful partnership with Tiger Woods.

Steve Williams’ Earnings as a Caddie

Williams’ financial success stems from his work as a caddie, where earnings are typically structured as a percentage of the golfer’s tournament winnings, supplemented by a weekly salary. The standard arrangement often involves the caddie receiving 5% of the pro’s earnings during regular tournament play. However, during his tenure with Tiger Woods, Steve Williams commanded a significantly higher percentage, reportedly taking home 15% of Woods’ tournament prizes. This lucrative arrangement allowed Williams to earn more than many professional tournament players during some of those peak years. For instance, in 2007 alone, his commissions totaled $1.4 million, placing him within the top 75 of PGA earners for that year – an impressive feat for a caddie.

Beyond his percentage of tournament winnings, Williams also benefited from endorsement deals and valuable gifts from Tiger Woods. During his 13 years with Woods (1999-2011), Steve Williams earned at least $12 million in bonuses and salary. Further sweetening the deal, Tiger Woods also reportedly gifted Steve 10 vehicles won at tournaments throughout their partnership. Before teaming up with Woods, Williams was already making a good living; his $1.4 million in earnings in 2007 placed him in the top 75 of PGA earners, even though he wasn’t a player.

Career Highlights and Partnerships

Born in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1963, Steve Williams began his caddying journey at the young age of 10. His professional career began in the 1970s, caddying on the European Tour for Australian golfer Peter Thomson. His career gained significant momentum in 1982 when he began working with Greg Norman, a partnership that solidified his reputation as a top-tier caddie in the world of professional golf. In 1988, Williams moved to the United States to caddie full-time for Greg Norman; however, Norman fired him in 1989.

The most defining period of Steve Williams’ career commenced in 1999 when he partnered with Tiger Woods. Over their 13-year collaboration, Williams caddied for 13 of Woods’ 15 major championship victories. During this time, Woods consistently held the World No. 1 ranking for a record number of weeks. Williams was known for his dedication to protecting Woods on the course, managing crowd control and even confronting photographers to ensure his player’s focus.

After the controversial end to his time with Woods in 2011, Williams moved on to caddie for Adam Scott. Together, they achieved victory at the 2013 Masters Tournament, marking Scott’s first major championship win. This win was especially significant, as it made Williams the first caddie to have been on the bag for winning teams at all four major championships. More recently, he has also worked with Jason Day.

Beyond the Golf Course

Steve Williams’ impact extends beyond his on-course achievements. He’s recognized for elevating the role of the caddie, transforming it from a mere bag carrier to a strategic advisor. He modernized the profession by emphasizing the importance of detailed course knowledge, precise yardages, wind calculations, and overall course management. His success made him one of the highest-paid caddies in golf history, even becoming the highest-paid New Zealand sportsperson for several years during his time with Woods.

Williams has also shared his insights and experiences through his autobiography, “Out of the Rough,” published in 2015. The book offers a look into his relationship with Tiger Woods and his views on the world of professional golf.