At a recent charity event Steve Williams, Tiger Woods’ caddie, had some strong words about number three ranked Phil Mickelson.
What the New Zealander Said
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.”
The following day, Williams told the Sunday Star-Times that his 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.”
How Did Tiger Feel About the Comments
Well, leave it to one of the classiest guys in golf to resolve his caddies error in judgment. In a statement issued on Monday, 14-times major winner Woods said: “I was disappointed to read the comments attributed to Steve Williams about Phil Mickelson, a player that I respect. It was inappropriate. The matter has been discussed and dealt with.”
Mickelson’s Rebuttal
“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,” world number three Mickelson said.
My Note
Tiger shouldn’t like Phil, nor Phil like Tiger. This is the point of a rivalry. Something we need in the game of golf. However, I don’t think we need caddies taking shots at talented golfer. And, I think all parties involved should show respect for one another.
