Woods's caddie to keep job after Mickelson comments

Videos
Photos

(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-12-18 10:36

THOUSAND OAKS, California - Tiger Woods has quashed speculation that his long-time caddie Steve Williams might lose his job after making derogatory comments about world number three Phil Mickelson.

Tiger Woods and his caddy Steve Williams. Phil Mickelson's coach Butch Harmon Tuesday said he was "shocked" after Williams' was caught in an extraordinary outburst against the world number three. [Agencies]

"What ended up happening is I communicated with Phil and we have discussed it," Woods told reporters on the eve of Thursday's opening round at the Chevron World Challenge.

"I talked to Stevie about it and he feels bad about what happened. It's something that none of us really wanted to have happen, but it's over and done with and we put it to bed."

Asked if Williams would continue working as his caddie when Woods returns to the PGA Tour next year, the world number one replied: "Yes he is."

Woods had previously expressed disappointment over comments attributed to Williams in a New Zealand newspaper, describing them as "inappropriate".

New Zealander Williams was quoted by the Taranaki Daily News on Saturday as saying: "I wouldn't call Mickelson a great player ... 'cause I hate the prick'."

CHARITY EVENT

The following day, Williams told the Sunday Star-Times the quote was accurate while adding he was surprised his comments made during a charity event had reached the public.

"I was simply honest and said they (Mickelson and Woods) don't get along," Williams told the newspaper. "You know what it's like. You're at a charity event and you have a bit of fun.

"I don't particularly like the guy (Mickelson) myself. He pays me no respect at all and hence I don't pay him any respect. It's no secret we don't get along either."

On Sunday, Mickelson's management team responded to what it said were "grossly inaccurate and irresponsible statements" made by Williams.

"After seeing Steve Williams' comments, all I could think of was how lucky I am to have a class act like (caddie) Bones (Jim Mackay) on my bag and representing me," Mickelson said.

A three-times major champion, left-hander Mickelson has long been regarded as the likeliest challenger to the dominant Woods. While the two players share a mutual respect, they have never been particularly close.

The usually tight-lipped Williams has caddied for Woods since 1999, carrying the American's bag for 13 of his 14 major victories. Mike "Fluff" Cowan, Woods's first caddie, was fired after giving a lengthy interview to Golf Digest magazine.