The PGA Championship is one of golf's major tournaments, and while players compete for millions in prize money, their caddies—often called bagmen—also earn significant sums. Caddie pay varies widely, typically based on a base salary plus a percentage of the player's winnings.
For top players like Rory McIlroy, who has worked with caddie Harry Diamond for years, the earnings can be substantial. Diamond reportedly receives a base salary of around $1,000 to $2,000 per week, plus a cut of McIlroy's prize money. In major tournaments, caddies often earn 10% of the winner's cheque, which for the PGA Championship's $3.15 million first prize would mean over $300,000.
However, not all caddies earn such high amounts. Those working with lower-ranked players may earn a smaller base salary and a lower percentage, typically 5-7% of winnings. Some caddies also negotiate flat fees for tournaments, especially if the player is unlikely to make the cut.
Overall, caddie pay in the PGA Championship reflects the high stakes of professional golf, with top bagmen earning six-figure sums for a single tournament victory.
