Cameron Young's Caddie Change Sparks Buzz Ahead Of Masters Final Round
Cameron Youngs Caddie Change Sparks Buzz Ahead Of Masters Final Round...
Golf fans were surprised Saturday when rising star Cameron Young made a last-minute caddie switch before the third round of the 2026 Masters Tournament. Young, currently ranked 12th in the world, parted ways with longtime caddie Chad Reynolds and brought in veteran looper Paul Tesori for the weekend at Augusta National.
The unexpected move comes as Young sits just three strokes off the lead entering Sunday's final round. Tesori, best known for his 12-year partnership with Webb Simpson, is regarded as one of the game's top strategists. The timing raised eyebrows across the golf world, with the change occurring midway through one of golf's most prestigious events.
Young declined to specify reasons for the switch when questioned by reporters after his third-round 68. "Sometimes you need a different look," the 29-year-old said tersely. Reynolds had been on Young's bag since his rookie season in 2021, including during his runner-up finish at the 2022 Open Championship.
The caddie drama dominated golf social media Saturday night, with #YoungCaddie trending on Twitter. Analysts noted the pressure Young faces Sunday as he chases his first major championship. ESPN's Scott Van Pelt called it "the boldest mid-tournament move we've seen at Augusta in years."
Tesori brings extensive Masters experience, having caddied in 15 previous tournaments at Augusta. His course knowledge could prove valuable as Young attempts to chase down leader Scottie Scheffler. The final round begins Sunday at 10:15 AM ET, with Young paired with defending champion Rory McIlroy in the penultimate group.
Caddie changes during majors remain rare but not unprecedented. Tiger Woods famously switched caddies before the 1999 PGA Championship, which he won. Whether Young's gamble pays off will become clear Sunday afternoon under Augusta's towering pines.