Tiger Woods’s Former Caddie, Joe LaCava Gives Himself Flowers For 15th Major Win Amid Big Cat’s Boiling Frustrations

Tiger Woods delivered one of sport’s improbable comeback success stories when he ended an 11-year wait to win a 15th major with a compelling Masters victory in 2019. The 43-year-old defied his doubters, following years of back problems and personal challenges, to celebrate an individual victory for perseverance at the scene where he won his first major in record-breaking fashion.

Woods claimed he had come “full circle” after a final-round two-under-par 70 saw him finish one shot clear of fellow Americans Dustin Johnson, Xander Schauffele and Brooks Koepka. His children watched from behind the 18th green. But behind this iconic triumph was a pivotal conversation that may have altered the course of golf history.

Joe LaCava, Woods’s caddie at the time, has recently revealed the crucial moment that potentially turned the tide toward Tiger’s historic victory. Speaking on the Fore Please! Now Driving… podcast, LaCava opened up about a critical exchange that unfolded on that fateful Sunday at Augusta National.

The conversation that changed everything

“We had a little bit of a chitchat after the fifth hole because I think he bogeyed four and five,” LaCava shared, reflecting on the situation. The veteran caddie sensed mounting frustration in his player at a crucial juncture of the final round.

What happened next showcased the special relationship between player and caddie at the highest level of golf. LaCava, typically not one for motivational speeches, felt this moment called for something different. “I basically said to him ‘Listen you’re the greatest player of all time, he made a couple bogies who cares, there’s a lot of golf left,’” he recalled.

The timing of LaCava’s intervention proved impeccable. After the brief but impactful pep talk on the 6th tee, Woods’ tournament trajectory dramatically shifted. The champion responded immediately by birdieing the 7th and 8th holes. He followed with an impressive two-putt on the 9th.

LaCava maintains a humble perspective about his contribution. “I don’t think because I gave him that pep talk, but I remember him just kind of absorbing it, paying attention,” he said during the podcast interview. Nevertheless, the caddie acknowledged that something seemed to click in Tiger’s approach after their conversation.