Will Ted Scott return to Scottie Scheffler’s bag after FedEx St. Jude Championship and how did fill-in caddie Brad Payne perform?

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler faced an unexpected challenge during the final round of the FedEx St. Jude Championship as his longtime caddie, Ted Scott, was absent due to a family emergency. Fill-in caddie Brad Payne stepped in to guide Scheffler, who had previously finished fourth at this event in 2024.

The question now is whether Scott will return to Scheffler’s bag for the upcoming playoff events. Scheffler, who has been in dominant form this season, including a career-low major round at The Open, will need stability as he pursues the FedExCup title.

Payne’s performance under pressure will be closely scrutinized, especially after Scheffler’s strong history at TPC Southwind, where he finished T4 in 2020.

Will Ted Scott Return to Scottie Scheffler’s Team After Family Emergency Absence?

World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler faced an unexpected challenge at the FedEx St. Jude Championship when his longtime caddie Ted Scott had to leave due to a family emergency. This isn’t the first time Scheffler had to adjust his team dynamics for personal reasons – recall when Scott missed Saturday’s round at the PGA Championship to attend his daughter’s graduation. The question now is whether Scott will return for the next tournament or if this absence might extend longer.

The pattern here shows Scheffler values family commitments above tournament consistency – and that likely includes supporting Scott’s need for time away. Expect a quick reunion.

But what if this emergency requires extended time? Would Scheffler consider a permanent change after building so much success with Scott?

Examining Their Career-Defining Partnership

Since teaming up in 2021, the Scheffler-Scott duo has achieved remarkable success including multiple major championships. Scott’s experience from caddying for Bubba Watson during two Masters victories brought invaluable course knowledge and strategic insights. Their partnership flourished through trust and shared priorities, as demonstrated when Scheffler fully supported Scott attending his daughter’s graduation during the PGA Championship.

How Did Substitute Caddie Brad Payne Perform Under Pressure?

Brad Payne, Scheffler’s swing coach who stepped in during the final round at TPC Southwind, faced the immense challenge of filling Ted Scott’s shoes during a crucial FedEx Cup playoff event. While specific details of Payne’s performance remain undisclosed, Scheffler completed the tournament at 14-under – matching his 2024 FedEx St. Jude result. Payne’s familiarity with Scheffler’s game likely smoothed the transition.

Temporary Caddie Impact Analysis

Historical data shows Scheffler adapting well to substitute caddies. During Scott’s previous absence at the PGA Championship, Scheffler maintained strong performance levels, suggesting his game isn’t overly dependent on any single caddie’s presence. Payne’s existing coaching relationship with Scheffler may have provided an advantage over bringing in a completely unfamiliar caddie.

What’s Ted Scott’s Salary and Could Money Affect His Return?

While exact figures remain confidential, reports suggest Scott earns between $1.5-3 million annually through base pay and victory percentages – substantial compensation reflecting Scheffler’s success. Scott reportedly earned approximately $270,000 from Scheffler’s Open Championship victory alone. This financial relationship creates strong mutual incentive to continue their partnership.

The financial component can’t be ignored – Scott has never earned at this level before in his career. That’s powerful retention motivation.

True, but family priorities have twice now disrupted their tournament schedule. Money might not be the deciding factor if personal obligations grow.

Has Scheffler Considered Other Caddie Options Long-Term?

While no indications suggest Scheffler is actively seeking a new caddie, professional golf history shows even successful partnerships eventually change. Tiger Woods famously rotated through multiple caddies during his career. Scheffler’s brief experiences with substitute caddies demonstrate he could adapt, but the proven results with Scott make a change unlikely unless forced by circumstances.

Potential Caddie Candidates

• Brad Payne – Existing swing coach who filled in recently
• Experienced tour caddies currently between players
• Former competitive golfers with deep course knowledge

How Do Other Pros Handle Caddie Absences Compared to Scheffler?

Scheffler’s calm response to Scott’s absences reflects his mature perspective. Unlike some players who might protest caddie unavailability, Scheffler has consistently supported Scott’s family commitments. This approach builds loyalty while demonstrating adaptability – qualities contributing to his rise as golf’s top player.

Recent Player-Caddie Disruptions

Scheffler’s ability to maintain performance despite caddie changes illustrates his mental toughness and comprehensive preparation.

What’s the Timeline for Scott’s Return to Competition?

Neither Scheffler nor Scott has publicly disclosed details about the family emergency or expected return date. Based on his previous one-round absence for graduation, and assuming this situation resolves similarly, Scott could return for the next FedEx Cup playoff event. However, more serious family matters might require extended time away.

The lack of public details suggests respecting privacy. We won’t see speculation from Scheffler’s camp – just patience until Scott is ready.

This uncertainty must be challenging for tournament planning. At what point would Scheffler need to establish a more permanent solution?