LIV Golf, the tour that’s been under the limelight for controversy, surprisingly finds an advocate in the form of seasoned caddie, Billy Foster. In a candid conversation with Genting Casinos, Foster outlines the distinct advantages that LIV Golf offers caddies, setting it apart from other Tours.
The financial aspect of this Tour, in particular, caught Foster’s eye. He made it clear that LIV Golf defrays travel and accommodation expenses for the caddies. “It almost seems like LIV has been crafted with inputs from the caddies association. The caddies are well taken care of with their expenses covered, including flights, hotels, and food. In fact, they even allocate funds for caddies to enjoy a drink at the bar,” Foster revealed in his interview, as cited by Golf Monthly.
With a career that boasts of caddying for PGA Tour star Matt Fitzpatrick and legendary golfers such as Lee Westwood, Foster’s endorsement carries weight. He believes LIV Golf offers an excellent monetary incentive for everyone who joins this league, a fact that could likely pique the interest of his peers and inspire them to join the Tour.
Foster shed light on the player-friendly arrangement of the Tour, stating, “All tee times are scheduled in the afternoon. It’s a shotgun start. The players have three rounds instead of the usual four. And the prize money, irrespective of your performance, is quite impressive. Players receive a substantial amount even for a below-par performance. From a caddie’s perspective, the LIV Tour is a dream come true.”
Foster also addressed the issue of slow play, often cited as a growing concern on this Tour. As a veteran in the golf circuit, he advocates for stricter time regulations, suggesting a limit of 50 or 60 seconds with a subsequent warning. He firmly asserts that the prospect of a penalty shot, as opposed to a mere monetary fine, would compel players to adapt their pace of play.
Thus, despite the criticism and controversy, LIV Golf seems to be winning admirers for its caddie-centric benefits and financial support. Foster’s endorsement could indeed serve as a beacon for his colleagues, prompting them to consider the unique opportunities this Tour offers.
