Report: Tiger Woods chooses Lance Bennett as caddie for Genesis Invitational

Tiger Woods is making his return to golf this weekend, participating in the Genesis Invitational. He has not been on the course since last April at the Masters. However, one question remained about Woods coming back — who would be his caddie?

Well, according to Adam Schupak of Golfweek, Lance Bennett has been chosen by Woods to be on his bag at the Genesis Invitational. The two have not worked together in the past but Woods is familiar with Bennett due to his time on Tour with Matt Kuchar.

“Golfweek has learned that veteran caddie Lance Bennett has been chosen by Woods for the plum assignment at Riviera,” Schupak said. “Woods knows Bennett well from his days caddying for Matt Kuchar, including a win alongside him at the 2012 Players, during his prime.”

Joe LaCava was previously Woods’ caddie and was with him in August last year. However, LaCava now works full-time with Patrick Cantlay. That duo will also be in Los Angeles over the weekend to compete at the Genesis Invitational.

Bennett could be available for Woods down the line as well, with Schupak saying the Players Championship and the Masters could be two more tournaments where the two work together. However, he is reporting that Woods may want to jump around the caddies.

Tiger Woods parts ways with Nike

Tiger Woods announced last month that he and Nike would be splitting up after 27 years together. If he’s joining a new brand or even creating one of his own, the timing would make sense.

“Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world,” Woods said in a statement. “The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever. Phil Knight’s passion and vision brought this Nike and Nike Golf partnership together and I want to personally thank him, along with the Nike employees and incredible athletes I have had the pleasure of working with along with way.

“People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will certainly be another chapter. See you in LA!”

It is just that time of year for big announcements from major sports figures. NFL legend Tom Brady recently announced that his Brady Brand was partnering with NOBULL footwear and apparel in a merger that makes the two brands one new entity.