Ever wonder who the unsung heroes are behind the rising stars of golf? With significant career wins like the 2020 PGA Championship and the 2021 Open Championship, Collin Morikawa rose to the top of the professional golf rankings. Despite not adding another major championship to his list of accomplishments in 2024, Morikawa produced reliable and admirable performances in each of the four major tournaments, including the Masters Tournament, where he tied for third place. 

Morikawa subsequently also proved his competitiveness by tying for fourth place in the PGA Championship and remained a strong player throughout the U.S. Open, finishing tied for 14th place. He also finished The Open Championship in a tie for 16th place.

One steadfast presence at his side throughout this incredible adventure is his caddie, Jonathan “JJ” Jakovac. With Jakovac’s advice being crucial, Morikawa’s preparations are well underway as the 2025 season begins. Let’s check out JJ’s extensive experience in the golf field and his role as Morikawa’s support system.

Introducing J.J. Jakovac, the caddie for Collin Morikawa

As a collegiate golf star growing up in Napa, California, Jakovac was surrounded by the game as his father was an avid player. During his time at California State University, Chico, where he excelled for the Chico State Wildcats, his potential grew. Among his notable accomplishments during his tenure in college were two NCAA Division II individual titles in 2002 and 2004, as well as three First Team All-American selections. Due to his outstanding play, he was named the Division II Player of the Year and twice received the Arnold Palmer Award. In 2004, he was named the most exceptional collegiate golfer in the United States across all categories, earning him the coveted Jack Nicklaus Award.

The California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) welcomed Jakovac into its Hall of Fame in 2023 in honor of his collegiate accomplishments. In his reflection on this honor, Jakovac stated, “It seems like a long time ago, but it’s something that I’m honored to be a part of.” His noteworthy accomplishments in collegiate golf and his enduring influence on the game at the collegiate level are acknowledged by this accomplishment.

From player to caddy, Jakovac contributed his profound knowledge of the sport to the PGA Tour. Before joining forces with Collin Morikawa, who currently ranks in the top 10 golfers in the world after going professional in June 2019, he caddied for players such as Ryan Moore, Matt Bettencourt, and a few others. Their collaboration swiftly grew stronger as Morikawa’s skills were complemented by Jakovac’s expertise and strategic vision. The cooperation between a golfer and his caddie can be the difference between winning and losing in the world of professional golf, where individual ability frequently takes center stage. Thus, let’s additionally look at Morikawa and Jakovac’s shared bond and thoughts on one another.

Morikawa’s relationship with Jakovac

One of the main factors contributing to Collin Morikawa’s performance on the PGA Tour has been his collaboration with JJ Jakovac. In times of stress, Jakovac’s leadership has been essential, offering both emotional support and practical guidance. Jakovac’s achievements have been frequently recognized by Morikawa, who referred to him as his “good luck charm” after his first significant triumph.

Morikawa attributed his accomplishment to Jakovac’s strategic savvy and steadfast backing following a standout performance at the ZOZO Championship. Morikawa expressed gratitude to caddie Jakovac during the streamed press conference of the 2023 ZOo Championship on YouTube after the final round, saying, “As a caddie, he has likely done more than I could have ever asked for, and that is saying a lot. He’s right there; it’s not like these guys are just carrying a bag.” Additionally, Morikawa discussed their friendship and Jacovak’s role as his instructor. “I have a friendship with him and a respect for him too that goes beyond the golf course,” Jakovac said. “I teared up, I was emotional because you don’t see that very often between a player and a caddie, it was cool to see and honor.”

A collaboration that flourishes under the demands of professional competition has been cultivated by mutual respect and open communication. Together with Morikawa’s technical prowess, Jakovac’s ability to remain composed and offer wise counsel makes them a formidable team on the PGA Tour. This collaboration, which combines Morikawa’s extraordinary talent with Jakovac’s seasoned coaching, is set to have a big influence on the 2025 season. What do you think about this duo and their upcoming goal? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.