World No 2 Adam Scott flooded with applications to be his caddie

World No 2 Adam Scott has been flooded by applications from people wanting to be his caddie after Steve Williams announced he was retiring from the post.

Williams, 50, who was on the bag for Tiger Woods as he won 13 of his 14 majors between 1999 and 2011, announced earlier this year that he would retire following September's Tour Championship after more than 30 years on the tour.

Australia's Scott revealed in Shanghai on Tuesday that more than 100 caddies, and a few other people, had contacted him since then about the job.

The position is one of the most lucrative in golf and Scott said he would take his time before choosing a long-term partner.

I cannot go out and look for the next Steve Williams. I don't think that's possible. I need to go out and find what is going to work for me at this stage in my career.

"You cannot replace a Steve Williams," the 2013 US Masters winner said on the sidelines of an event to promote 10 years of the HSBC Champions tournament in Shanghai.

"I was lucky to get Steve three years ago, but I always knew I was on borrowed time.

"I cannot go out and look for the next Steve Williams. I don't think that's possible. I need to go out and find what is going to work for me at this stage in my career.

"I have some time on my hands and I won't make a decision long-term till next year. I need to see a few personalities, see what gels best. It's like any relationship."

Flattered

Scott admits he was flattered to receive so many calls from people offering to work with him.

"It's good to know people would want to work with me," he said. "If the phone didn't get a message, I'd be a little worried what they all think of me."

Most of the calls were from established caddies on tour, and Scott wouldn't reveal any names as some of them are employed by well-known players.

World Golf Championship

But there were one or two applications that surprised him more than a little.

"There were some shockers," said Scott. "Some guy in Florida, who lives at home and looks after his mum, was one. I guess he figured it would be a good job."

Scott also wanted to pay tribute to Williams, saying he had learnt so much from him.

"Steve was a huge influence," he added. 

"When the opportunity came up to work with Steve, it was great timing because I was at that point when I just needed that one last piece of the puzzle. 

"Steve certainly filled that during our time. Ultimately we won the Masters together. He has been incredible for me."