Why Did Tiger Woods Fire Mike ‘Fluff’ Cowan? The Ugly Player-Caddie Breakup Explored

Does the name Mike Cowan ring a bell? No? What about ‘Fluff’? If the first visual in your mind is the caddie with the famed walrus mustache holding out his cigarette to check the wind for Tiger Woods, you are right as rain. Mike ‘Fluff’ Cowan left Peter Jacobsen to caddie for Woods in his professional debut in 1996. They would go on to rake in seven titles, including Woods’ thumping 12-shot victory at the Masters, before splitting up.

Cowan, who turns 76 today, enjoyed his shot at glory and financial prosperity with Woods. In fact, the veteran looper had his own endorsement contract, which was almost unthinkable considering caddies were still working in the shadows of their employer at that time. So, when they split up, it was rather shocking because Woods once described him as the “best caddie in the world.”

Tiger Woods was not happy with Mike Cowan’s comments

Reportedly, Woods had a fallout with the former caddie. Rather than any on-course disagreements, it stemmed from an off-the-court interview that the bagman gave to a leading American Publication. Apparently, Woods was not happy with Cowan revealing their financial agreement.

The first sign of trouble was visible in the Nissan Open, where Woods had a verbal altercation with the veteran, as per reports. Eventually, 23-year-old Woods picked his friend to caddie for him in the next two events. Asked about Cowan’s future appearance at that time, he curtly responded, “I don’t know. probably.”

Eventually announcing the end of the partnership, the then 23-year-old said in an official statement, “Fluff and I have discussed this over the past few weeks and we both feel it is in our best interest to part ways, I appreciate the support which Fluff has provided and recognize the contributions Fluff has made to my success as a professional. But it is time to move on, and I feel confident we will remain friends.” 

Woods picked Steve Williams after ditching Cowan. The experienced bagman then went on to caddie for Jim Furyk after splitting with Woods. The veteran caddie had a garlanded four-decade career as a bagman.

Cowan had a legendary career as a looper

Mike Cowan started caddying in the late 1970s for Ed Sabo before partnering with Peter Jacobsen from 1978 to 1996. A brief stint with Tiger Woods followed after Jacobsen. After the Woods fallout, Cowan looped for Furyk, who is still going to the PGA Tour Champions. 

Read More: ‘I’ll Always Be Thankful’ – Fluff Narrates an Emotional Anecdote Highlighting Jim Furyk’s Kindness