World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler relied on tour chaplain Brad Payne to serve as his caddie for the final round of the FedEx St Jude Championship on Sunday. This change came after Scheffler’s regular caddie, Ted Scott, had to leave Memphis due to a family emergency in Louisiana. 

With Scheffler just two shots off the lead entering the final round, the decision to enlist Payne, a close friend and experienced stand-in, added an intriguing twist to the tournament.

Brad Payne’s role

Brad Payne, president of the College Golf Fellowship and a chaplain to several PGA Tour players, is no stranger to stepping in for Scheffler. The two share a strong bond, built on trust and friendship, which made Payne a natural choice to carry Scheffler’s bag in this high-stakes moment.

Notably, Payne previously filled in as Scheffler’s caddie during the third round of the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla, when Ted Scott attended his daughter’s graduation.

Payne’s familiarity with Scheffler’s game and their personal connection allow him to provide both technical support and emotional stability on the course. This was especially critical at the FedEx St Jude Championship, where Scheffler aimed to maintain his position at the top of the leaderboard.