The 2023 season for Talor Gooch on LIV Golf was better than anyone else’s. The player won the biggest individual purse in the league this year and soon after set off on his philanthropic adventures. Ever since the season ended, however, there has been silence from the LIV rebels until now. And what a way to end his mute stance with a jab against the PGA Tour and praise for Greg Norman!

In a recent series of events, Gooch sat down for a podcast, and while talking about the treatment of players and associates on LIV Golf, the golfer bought in the PGA Tour and shared what he believes sets the two leagues apart, seeing as to how he’s played for both sides.

Gooch shares insights on a paradigm shift between LIV and PGAT

Talor Gooch appeared on the ‘This is Oklahoma’ podcast recently where the golfer talked about how everyone at LIV Golf, including caddies, are treated equally. The 3-time LIV winner reflected on the evolving perception of caddies in the golfing world, emphasizing the positive shift in recent years. Talking about the LIV-PGAT difference, the player added, “You often hear the term caddie dream and, like, live it for everyone. But you know, especially for the caddies like, it’s…so different than what the PGA Tour was.”

Diving further into the matter, Gooch talked about the transformative impact of the LIV initiative, crediting Greg Norman for fostering a sense of inclusivity, where caddies are viewed as integral team members rather than “second-class citizens.” He claimed that it was an “old way of thinking” that LIV had pushed aside and added that the credit for it all goes to Greg Norman, “because he kind of heads that off.”

The LIV star also explained that there’s a sense of satisfaction with the positive changes in the golfing landscape, which the LIV players particularly feel because of the inclusivity in player dining. “It’s cool that now that player dining isn’t just players, it’s… your coach, your caddie, your trainer. Your team gets access to the same places,” Gooch concluded. 

Gooch’s words bring to life the close connection he has with his caddie. The golfer holds his bagman in quite high regard—a testimony to which is when his caddie tagged along during the player’s PGAT to LIV move.

Talor Gooch and Malcolm Baker—a loyal partnership spanning years

Gooch’s caddie, Malcolm Baker, is an Australian-born former professional golfer turned caddie who worked with Ian Baker-Finch and Tom Hoge before joining Gooch at the start of his career in 2014. The LIV golfer and Baker’s partnership has spanned six years, resulting in one PGA Tour victory and now three LIV Golf event wins.

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Baker’s loyalty to Gooch has been evident, with the caddie accompanying him to the LIV Golf Jeddah event after Gooch’s departure from the PGA Tour. The duo’s mutual appreciation has played a big part in their success on the course, with Gooch crediting Baker’s green-reading ability and emotional support.

In a sitdown in the past, Baker even shared his desired foursome pairing, which included Gooch, yet again showcasing his loyalty and love for the LIV star. Their partnership has been beneficial for both, and hopes for a fledgling future are undoubtedly high!

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