Mike Hicks

Mike Hicks is recognized in the professional golf industry for his extensive career as a caddie. With more than four decades of experience, Hicks played a pivotal role in the 1999 U.S. Open victory alongside Payne Stewart, a moment widely regarded as one of the most memorable in golf history. Hicks began his caddying journey at age 12 at his hometown club in North Carolina. While attending North Carolina State, he was encouraged to join the PGA Tour's West Coast swing, which marked the start of his long-term involvement in professional golf.

Hicks worked part-time for Curtis Strange, a two-time U.S. Open champion, before forming a successful partnership with Payne Stewart. Over 11 years, Hicks and Stewart secured nine wins worldwide, including the PGA Championship and two U.S. Opens. Their collaboration culminated at Pinehurst No. 2, where Stewart’s victory celebration with Hicks was captured in a photograph that remains iconic within the sport. Stewart died in a plane crash several months after their final major win.

In addition to his work with Stewart, Hicks caddied for several prominent PGA Tour professionals, including Curtis Strange, Jonathan Byrd, Greg Norman, Steve Stricker, Grayson Murray, and Brendon Todd. Hicks achieved 16 Tour wins with four different players: Payne Stewart, Curtis Strange, Scott Hoch, and Jonathan Byrd. Beyond his on-course achievements, Hicks advocated for caddie rights, serving as a lead class representative in a federal lawsuit against the PGA Tour regarding endorsement revenue from sponsor logos on caddie bibs.

Following his retirement from the PGA Tour, Hicks focused on education and mentorship within the golf industry. As a founding member of the Tour Caddie Collective, he contributed to the development of the Professional Caddie Certification Program in partnership with North Carolina State University's Office of Professional Development. This program offers comprehensive instruction on caddying. Hicks also established Mike Hicks Golf, providing individualized putting instruction to junior and college players. He emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, statistical analysis, and course management in caddying, drawing on his championship experience and industry knowledge to mentor the next generation of golf professionals.