In a sport where player-caddie partnerships frequently shift like desert sands, Justin Rose and Mark “Fooch” Fulcher stand out as one of golf’s most enduring duos. Their remarkable 11-year initial partnership (2008-2019) far exceeded the typical PGA Tour caddie tenure of just 4.5 years, creating a bond that even a four-year separation couldn’t break. Now reunited since September 2023, the pair is proving that sometimes the most successful relationships in golf deserve a second chapter.
From talented golfer to elite caddie: Mark Fulcher’s career path
Mark Fulcher’s journey to becoming one of golf’s most respected caddies began with his own passion for the game. An accomplished player himself, “Fooch” won the Bedfordshire Boys’ Championship in his youth, developing the keen eye and strategic mind that would later serve him well on professional tours. His transition from player to caddie allowed him to stay connected to the game he loved while offering his expertise to top competitors.
Fulcher’s professional caddying career started in women’s golf, where he worked with major winners Dame Laura Davies and Alison Nicholas. These early experiences built his reputation as a knowledgeable and reliable caddie before he made his way to the men’s game. His big break came in 2008 when he joined Justin Rose, beginning what would become an 11-year partnership that elevated both men’s careers to new heights.
The Rose-Fulcher partnership quickly proved successful, with Rose securing nine PGA Tour victories and five DP World Tour trophies during their time together. Their crowning achievement came at the 2013 US Open at Merion, where Fulcher’s guidance helped Rose claim his maiden major championship, becoming the first Englishman to win the tournament since Tony Jacklin in 1970. Three years later, they made history again at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where Rose became golf’s first Olympic champion since 1904, with Fulcher by his side.
Golf – The Masters – Augusta National Golf Club – Augusta, Georgia, U.S. – April 6, 2021 The caddie of England’s Justin Rose retrieves his ball from the water on the 15th hole during a practice round REUTERS/Brian Snyder
Their partnership faced its biggest challenge in early 2019 when Fulcher underwent major heart surgery to repair a mitral valve, requiring doctors to open his chest. Though he briefly returned for the Masters that year, it became clear that a longer recovery was necessary. In May 2019, Rose announced their separation in a heartfelt social media post, stating: “I have no doubts that we will stride up a 72nd hole late on a Sunday afternoon together in the future.”
During his recovery and time away from Rose, Fulcher didn’t step away from the game completely. He returned to caddying when his health allowed, working with Francesco Molinari for about 19 months before joining Paul Casey during his time on LIV Golf. By 2021, Fulcher had joined forces with Billy Horschel, creating another successful partnership that yielded victory at the 2022 Memorial Tournament and multiple top-10 finishes. Their collaboration proved lucrative, with Horschel earning over $5.2 million during their time together, of which Fulcher reportedly earned around 6%.
In September 2023, Rose’s prophecy came true when he and Fulcher reunited ahead of the BMW PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup. Their chemistry was immediately apparent as Rose secured a spot on Team Europe for the Ryder Cup at Marco Simone in Rome, where he made crucial contributions to Europe’s victory, including a momentum-maintaining putt at the end of day one. The decision to reunite was described by Rose as “easy,” noting that despite their years apart, working together again “just feels completely normal.”
Winning partnership delivered greatest triumphs of Justin Rose
Fulcher’s impact on Rose’s career has been immeasurable. He served as the steady hand during Rose’s greatest triumphs. Beyond his major win and Olympic gold, Fulcher was with Rose when he reached the World No.1 ranking in 2018, a position he held for 13 weeks. Their partnership also yielded success at multiple Ryder Cups, including the memorable “Miracle of Medinah” in 2012, where Rose defeated Phil Mickelson in a pivotal singles match.
Rose has frequently credited Fulcher’s influence during pressure situations, particularly noting his caddie’s calming presence during the final round of their winning U.S. Open. The caddie’s contributions extended beyond technical advice; he provided emotional stability that proved crucial in Rose’s biggest moments on golf’s grandest stages.
Speaking about their reunion, Rose explained: “We were together for so long and had the appropriate amount of time apart as well. We both had the opportunity to go and do different things, experience different things, and learn, then come back together with the previous ten or eleven years done and dusted and with a new goal of seeing what else we can achieve.”
As they continue their second chapter together, the golf world watches with interest to see what new heights this reunited team can reach. Will their renewed partnership bring Rose another major championship? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!
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