Woods seeks successor to Williams

Tiger Woods continues his search for a new caddie after parting company with Steve Williams, having worked with the New Zealander since March 1999.

Woods, currently out of the sport through injury, made the announcement on his official website.

"I want to express my deepest gratitude to Stevie for all his help, but I think it's time for a change," said Woods. "Stevie is an outstanding caddie and a friend and has been instrumental in many of my accomplishments. I wish him great success in the future."

The 35-year-old further announced that he has not yet decided on a replacement as he continues his recovery from the injuries to his left leg and has not made a decision on when to return to the PGA Tour.

Woods' decision had come as a "shock" to Williams, who confirmed on his official website that he would now be working with Adam Scott on a permanent basis, having carried the Australian's bag at the US Open and The Open.

Williams said: "Following the completion of the AT&T National I am no longer caddying for Tiger after he informed me that he needed to make a change. After 13 years of loyal service needless to say this came as a shock.

"Given the circumstances of the past 18 months working through Tiger's scandal, a new coach and with it a major swing change and Tiger battling through injuries, I am very disappointed to end our very successful partnership at this time.

"I have had the opportunity to work of late for Australian Adam Scott and will now caddy for him on a permanent basis.

"Having started my caddying career with Australian great Peter Thompson and working for Greg Norman in the '80s I am excited about the future working for another Australian."

Woods, a winner of 14 major titles, missed The Open at Sandwich last week with knee and Achilles injuries, having also missed the US Open last month. Woods had been out of action for two months prior to The Open before he finally conceded he would not be able to compete at Royal St George's.