The rumour has now been confirmed. Tiger Woods has dumped his caddie of 13 years, New Zealander Steve Williams.
Woods announced the split via his website, stating:
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Stevie for all his help, but I think it’s time for a change. Stevie is an outstanding caddie and a friend and has been instrumental in many of my accomplishments. I wish him great success in the future.”
Williams responded on his website with a not-too-pleasant retort: “After 13 years of loyal service needless to say this came as a shock. Given the circumstances of the past 18 months working through Tiger’s scandal, a new coach and with it a major swing change and Tiger battling through injuries I am very disappointed to end our very successful partnership at this time.”
Woods and Williams were a near unbeatable team during Woods’ reign at the top of golf. They teamed for 72 worldwide tournament victories, including 13 major championships.
Woods has not named a replacement caddie.
Williams will not be looking for work, however, as he will continue with Adam Scott, for whom Williams has been looping in the last two Majors.
“I have had the opportunity to work of late for Australian Adam Scott and will now caddie for him on a permanent basis,” William said. “Having started my caddying career with Australian great Peter Thomson and working for Greg Norman in the ’80s I am excited about the future working for another Australian,” Williams said on his website.
It would seem that Woods is continuing to “clean house” following the tumultuous two years since revelations over his infidelity. With a new management company, new swing coach, new swing, new bachelor pad and, soon, a new caddie, Tiger has appeared to remove as many connections to his “old life” as possible.
Woods continues to rest and rehabilitate his left leg. No decision has been made when he will return to competition on the PGA Tour, but rumours abound that he may be back for the PGA Championship.