Are caddies employees of clubs or players?

Answer 1

Caddies are typically not employees of Golf clubs or players in a formal, full-time sense—they are usually independent contractors. Here's a breakdown:

1. At Professional Tournaments (PGA, etc.):

Caddies work directly for players and are hired individually.

They are usually independent, not employed by clubs or tours.

Payment is often a mix of a base fee plus a percentage of the player's winnings.

2. At Golf Clubs (Private or Public):

Caddies may be independent contractors or part-time employees of the club's caddie program.

Some clubs manage their own caddie services; others use outside companies.

Caddies are paid by the golfer (club member or guest), often with suggested rates or tips.

Answer 2

Most of the time a caddy is an employee of the golfer. Where I caddy (Royal Portrush Golf Club) we have a caddy master who arranges caddys for visiting golfers, however he is an employee of the club. Some clubs around the world will employ full time caddys and aim to make a profit from hiring them to members and visiting golfers.

On the professional tours a caddy is always an employee of the golfer.