Collin Morikawa has linked up with legendary caddie Billy Foster for the next two weeks at the Scottish Open and The Open Championship, two season-defining events
Collin Morikawa has discussed his new caddie(Image: Getty Images)
Collin Morikawa credits fun and simplicity as the secret sauce in his partnership with new caddie Billy Foster.
Morikawa explained why he chose the Yorkshireman to tote his clubs during the crucial two-week British swing, which includes the Scottish Open and the upcoming Open Championship at Royal Portrush. Justin Thomas, meanwhile, has dished out a savage dig at Max Homa after the latter missed out on victory at the John Deere Classic.
Foster, who has looped for golfing greats like Seve Ballesteros and Tiger Woods in the past, is part of a straightforward pact with PGA Tour star Morikawa for their time together.
The 2021 Open Champion explained: “It’s going to be a two-week thing as of now, just to fill in.
“I was trying to think about who would be available, and then a couple of people brought his name up, and what a legend he is. I mean, the stories he’s had, the people he’s caddied for. Yesterday, out playing, he told me some good Seve stories, and I’m very lucky to have someone like that to be able to hop on the bag for a couple of weeks and just enjoy it.
“You know, we’ve got a very simple game plan these next two weeks. One, go and have fun. And two, just be simple, execute the shots.
Matt Fitzpatrick celebrates with caddie Billy Foster(Image: Getty Images)
“At the end of the day, that’s what golf is. So, hopefully, we can enjoy these two weeks as much as we can. It’s good to see him out here, I know he’s enjoying it, kind of shooting the talk with everyone.”
With a grin, he confessed: “I feel like I’ve got more pressure on me with him on the bag! It’s really good.”
Morikawa has openly discussed his recent struggles and the choices he’s made regarding his caddies, having split from both J.J. Jakovac and Joe Greiner. His candor has been a breath of fresh air for avid golf enthusiasts.
He said: “I think a lot of us, we live in such a public profile that sometimes you have to think about what you’re going to say. But, at the end of the day, you have to be honest and you have to be yourself. And if that comes off harsh, so be it.
“But look, I am who I am. You just want to be yourself and, for the most part, you got to stay true to that. It’s hard to do when we live such a public life, but I hope people just are honest with everyone because that’s all you can do is just be honest with yourself, be honest with the people around you, and take it for what it is.”
Morikawa hit the Renaissance range under the bright sun, clearly eager for the challenges ahead. He said: “I mean, when it’s sunny like this, I love it even more, but it’s just a different style of golf and I think we always look forward to that.
“You have to hit shots. You got to be creative and, no matter how your game’s feeling, you just have to go and play golf. That’s what’s great about coming over here for these couple of weeks.”
Morikawa highlighted the significance of competing in Scotland the week prior to The Open, recalling his victory at Royal St. George’s four years ago. He considers it crucial to his preparation, stating: “I haven’t had the results I’ve wanted since, but that’s part of it. That’s part of golf and, out here, you never know what you’re going to get.
“And a course like this, when it’s going to be dry and a little firmer I’m guessing, it’s going to play great and it’ll be a good lead up in the next week.”
