Former tennis champion Krajicek makes debut as caddie

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(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-09-17 13:28

LONDON: Former Wimbledon champion Richard Krajicek has taken on several roles since quitting tennis in 2003, including making his debut as a caddie at last week's European Challenge Tour event.

The Dutchman is with the management group SP International, which also helps footballers Ruud van Nistelrooy and Salomon Kalou, and has looked after compatriot Wil Besseling for two seasons.

Last week Krajicek decided to take the plunge and carry the 23-year-old's bag for the first time in the final round of a Challenge Tour (second tier) event in the Netherlands.

"I have been managing Wil for a couple of years since he turned professional," Krajicek said.

"Being on the bag was good as it gave us a chance to talk more and I could give Wil some advice. I appreciate there is a difference between tennis and golf as both are different games but I help him in terms of the mental side and handling the pressure."

Swing tips

However the 1996 Wimbledon champion, who also runs his charity the Richard Krajicek Foundation, was less successful when he attempted to give world No 367 Besseling swing tips.

"I tried to give him some advice about some of his golf shots but he ignored that," said Krajicek, 37.

Besseling has played several times on the main European Tour, with his best display a tie for third at the Madeira Islands Open in March.

"Having Richard on the bag was great fun and it's been good working with him," said the young golfer after a closing two-under-par 70 gave him a share of 45th position.

"Maybe we will work something out so it happens more often."

Krajicek says he has limited golfing skills.

"I'm a 19 or 20 handicapper," said the Dutchman. "I probably play nine holes twice a week but I find it difficult getting the time with two children and everything else in my life."