Steve Williams, the long-time caddie of former world No.1 Tiger Woods, has split with the fallen star and will partner
Australian Adam Scott.
The Woods-Williams combination began in 1999 and its end casts further doubt on Woods’s ability to get back to the top of the sport.
Woods, a 14-time Major winner who is currently out with an injured left leg, made the announcement on his official website.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Stevie for all his help, but I think it’s time for a change,” Woods said.
“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.”
The 35-year-old added that he has not yet decided on a replacement as he continues his recovery from his injuries and has not made a decision on when to return to the PGA Tour.
Woods missed the British Open at Sandwich last week with knee and Achilles injuries having also missed the US Open last month.
Williams said the split came after this month’s PGA Tour event in Pennsylvania.
“He informed me that he needed to make a change,” Williams said.
“After 13 years of loyal service, needless to say this came as a shock.”
Williams and Woods had been thought inseparable before Woods admitted a series of sexual indiscretions in late 2009.
Woods has since separated from his wife and has been troubled by injury.
Williams said he was “very disappointed” the partnership had ended.
Williams has been caddying for Australian Adam Scott in recent times and that will now become a full-time position.
“I have had the opportunity to work of late for Australian Adam Scott and will now caddie for him on a permanent basis,” Williams said.
“Having started my caddying career with Australian great Peter Thompson and working for Greg Norman in the 1980s, I am excited about the future working for another Australian.”
by Buford Balony
