After 12 years together, which included a U.S. Open title, Webb Simpson and Paul Tesori are parting ways.
Simpson announced the move on social media on Monday and revealed that Tesori, one of the hardest-working caddies on the PGA Tour, would be taking over the bag of budding star Cameron Young, the 25-year-old reigning PGA Tour Rookie of the Year who is still seeking his first Tour title.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision for both of us, but one that we have thoroughly considered after spending many hours in prayer, seeking counsel from mentors, and having countless conversations together,” Simpson wrote in a tweet.
In addition to winning the 2012 U.S. Open at The Olympic Club in San Francisco, Simpson and Tesori teamed to win the 2018 Players Championship near Tesori’s childhood home of Jacksonville, Florida, represented the U.S. in multiple Ryder and Presidents Cups and climbed to a career-best of fourth in the Official World Golf Ranking.
“I am happy for the great opportunity Paul has in going to work with my fellow (Wake Forest) Demon Deacon and friend, Cameron Young,” Simpson wrote.
— Webb Simpson (@webbsimpson1) March 20, 2023
Tesori, who was a good enough player to earn his PGA Tour card before flaming out and switching to caddying, previously worked for Vijay Singh and Sean O’Hair.
Simpson, 37, has battled injuries and struggled on the course since 2020, the year of his last victory at the RBC Heritage. He surged into contention last week at the Valspar Championship to earn a late tee time in the second-to-last pairing, but shot 2-over 73 on Sunday and finished T-7, his first top 10 in 16 months. On Saturday, Simpson credited his faith for helping him through the latest valley in a career of many high points.
Paul Tesori, left, with former player Webb Simpson, has been on the bags for wins with Vijay Singh and Sean O’Hair, too.
“Just trusting that God’s working. Even in the struggles, even in the hardships, there’s still a purpose in it, which helps me get out of bed in the morning,” Simpson said after Saturday’s third round at Innisbrook Resort’s Copperhead Course in Palm Harbor, Florida. “Because if I was only result-oriented and results-based there’s a lot of evidence for me to be kind of down sad and no hope. But the Lord’s asked me to work hard for His glory and I feel like I’ve done that. So as hard as it’s been and as frustrating and at moments wanting to snap every club in my bag, I’ve had a lot of peace through this last year and a half, which has been nice.”
Simpson did not disclose who would be taking over for Tesori as his caddie.
