All good things must come to an end! Ask Matt Fitzpatrick and Billy Foster. After winning his first major, the 2022 US Open, Fitzpatrick did not forget to thank Foster; after all, this major win meant so much to him. Foster famously had never been on the bag of a major winner during more than 40 years as a caddie. So, when Fitzpatrick ended that run, emotions were high. “This means the world to Billy,” said Fitzpatrick. “It’s unbelievable for him. I know it’s something he’s wanted for a long, long, long time. To do it is incredible.”
The duo was going strong. They won the 2023 RBC Heritage together as well, one of their other notable wins. But then came 2025, and it is Foster’s 43rd year caddying. Oh, the rich experience he brings to the table! He decided it was time to do a lot more with his life. Like speaking, writing a book, and trying hands at broadcast. “It’s time,” Foster, who is 61, told Golfweek. “I’ve missed out on a lot in life.” He had already told Fitzpatrick his plans when he started working with him 6 years ago.
“When I started with Matt six years ago, I told him I’d like to do 20 (tournaments), that 27 is too much,” Foster said. “From day one, I wanted someone to work a few. I’d still like to do 18 but it’s not fair to have someone do just seven. So I compromised that I’ll do 13 for Matt and maybe pick up a few in Europe, too.” Fitzpatrick had another caddie with him, a veteran Daniel Parratt, who had worked with the likes of Ben An, K.H. Lee, and Tom Kim.
“Who knows might be back full time at some point but now seems the right time to give the body a break and catch up on things I miss out on… might event start playing golf again,” Foster wrote on Instagram a while back, sharing his plans, clearly wanting to live more of his life. The plan was in the works to caddy less for Fitzpatrick, so nobody expected the bombshell Foster threw the golf world’s way.
The veteran caddie shared that he and Matt Fitzpatrick are going their separate ways now. “Well after 6 great years, all good things come to an end. This game never stops to frustrate you & infuriate you….!!!” Foster wrote in his heartfelt post on March 15. He didn’t hold back, adding, “Unfortunately, times change & ultimately it’s the caddie or the coach that has to accept results are not good enough & when you stop enjoying what you are doing, it’s time for a change.” He was grateful and wished nothing but good for the golfer, “Thanks, Matt, we had a great run and who knows where the next chapter will go. Onwards and upwards.”
Actually, the timing couldn’t be more interesting, coming hot on the heels of Fitzpatrick’s mini-meltdown about that pesky tree at TPC Sawgrass. Remember that? He flat-out called it the “dumbest tree” he’d ever seen and even suggested, “If someone could remove it, that would be great.” Talk about not mincing words!
For Fitzpatrick, the split represents a significant change as he goes through a tough phase in his career. The Englishman’s world ranking has dropped from inside the top 10 in April 2024 to 61st currently—his lowest position in almost a decade. The 2025 season has proven especially challenging for the 2022 U.S. Open champion, with his best finish being just T24 at The Sentry. At The PLAYERS Championship, he shot rounds of 78 and 72, missing the cut by two shots.
The separation truly marks the end of what had been a fruitful partnership for Fitzpatrick and Foster.
Billy Foster’s time with Fitzpatrick and his legendary career
Fitzpatrick first teamed up with Foster in 2018, following the caddie’s split with Lee Westwood. Together, they celebrated multiple victories, including the 2023 Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. The duo also contributed to Team Europe’s victory at the 2023 Ryder Cup. Despite these achievements, recent struggles have strained the relationship to its breaking point. But who exactly is the man who has carried Fitzpatrick’s bag through these highs and lows?
Foster has worked with some of golf’s most talented players throughout his storied career. His impressive resume includes stints with Seve Ballesteros, Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke, and even a brief period with Tiger Woods during the 2005 Presidents Cup. He has participated in 14 Ryder Cups, highlighting his extensive experience at golf’s highest levels.
With The Masters approaching in less than a month, Fitzpatrick now faces the task of finding a new caddie as he attempts to recapture his form.
The post ‘Never Stops to Frustrate You’: Famed PGA Tour Caddie Ousted by US Open Champ Facing Heat for Bad Behavior appeared first on EssentiallySports.
