A win has several layers to it. A similar saga can be traced back to Hideki Matsuyama’s recent Genesis Invitational triumph. Apart from the golfer’s dedication, hard work, and luck, one of the important aspects of his win was also the man behind the star, his caddie of almost half a decade.

But who is this gem? Well, this talented caddie is the famous Shota Hayafuji. Hayafuji went viral after he famously bowed at the greens of the 2021 Masters Tournament after Matsuyama’s first major win. As the duo underscores yet another victory to their name, here’s your key to knowing the star Japanese caddie better.

Who is Shota Hayafuji?

Shota Hayafuji’s love for golf seems to be deep-rooted. Apart from being a well-known bagman, Hayafuji is also a registered golfer on the China Tour. A quick fact? His profile even boasts of an ace in the last round he played!

It’s interesting, isn’t it? But when did Hayafuji exactly become a part of the 31-year-old’s golfing journey? Well, the duo’s togetherness can be traced back to the year 2019. Together, they have won four titles namely, the 2021 Masters Tournament, the 2021 Zozo Championship, the 2022 Sony Open in Hawaii, and the 2024 Genesis Invitational.

Hayafuji never fails to disappoint the golf audience. After his first viral moment, where he was seen observing a highly valued Japanese tradition back in 2021, he recently went viral again for simply waiting on the sidelines to see the final group finish on Sunday.

The Humbleness of Matsuyama’s bagman garnered a lot of attention and love on social media. Interestingly, the golfer’s win helped Shota Hayafuji earn his career’s highest check so far.

How much did Hideki Matsuyama’s caddie earn for his Riviera win?

As is well known, the 9-time PGAT champ earned a total of $4 million as the winner’s payout, out of the $20 million prize purse of the signature event. Out of the 4 million, as per common practice, Hayafuji must’ve earned a 10 percent share because he was a caddie for the victorious golfer at the PGA Tour event.

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Going with that logic, the famous caddie and sometimes golfer earned caddie approximately $400,000 at the Genesis Invitational 2024. It makes sense why the famous bagman was patiently waiting for Matsuyama’s win on the sidelines; it comes with a huge financial incentive!

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