Caddies on the PGA Tour have the potential to earn substantial amounts of money, especially when carrying for top players like Scottie Scheffler. In 2024, Scheffler’s caddie, Ted Scott, took home approximately $5.2 million following his boss’s successful season. Even caddies who do not work for the top players can still earn a decent income, as demonstrated by a tweet from Ben Silverman’s caddie, Bryan Kopsick, who earned a total of $149,007.92 in 2024 from on-course earnings.
The standard cut for a caddie is typically around 10% of the winner’s check and between 5-7% for other finishes. Kopsick, for example, receives an 8% cut of Silverman’s earnings, which amounted to $101,007.92 in 2024. In addition to the percentage cut, caddies also receive a base wage for accommodation and travel expenses, with Kopsick earning $2,000 per week over 24 events.
While the potential earnings for caddies may seem attractive, it’s important to consider the expenses involved in their profession. Kopsick mentioned that his travel and professional expenses for the year were forecasted to be around $50,000, leaving him with less than $100,000 in net earnings. Despite the financial rewards, the life of a caddie can be challenging, with long hours and lonely stretches on the road.
Transitioning from the Korn Ferry Tour to the PGA Tour can also have a significant impact on a caddie’s earnings. Kopsick’s earnings from 2021 to 2023 reflect this difference, with a substantial increase in earnings from $74,890 in 2021 to over $500,000 in 2023. This demonstrates the potential for growth and increased earnings for caddies working on the PGA Tour.
Overall, working as a caddie on the PGA Tour can be financially rewarding, especially for those who have the opportunity to work with top players. While the potential for high earnings is there, caddies must also consider the expenses and challenges that come with the profession. With dedication, hard work, and a supportive network, caddies can navigate the ups and downs of life on the PGA Tour and potentially build a successful career in the industry.
