The Unseen Hero Behind Hae-Ran Ryu's Success
The Journey of a Golf Prodigy
Hae-Ran Ryu is making waves in the golf world. At just 24, she has already:
- Won three LPGA Tour events
- Earned over $5.5 million
- Secured 22 top-10 finishes
Her journey from the Korean circuit to being named the 2023 Tour Rookie of the Year has been impressive. But behind her success stands a crucial figure: her caddie, Martin Bozek.
The Unsung Hero: Martin Bozek
Martin Bozek is more than just a golf bag carrier. He started caddying at 13 in Chicago, learning the ropes the old-fashioned way—walking courses, memorizing distances, and carrying clubs. He even studied at St. Francis University and now works as a professional caddie and instructor, showing his deep knowledge of the game.
A Valuable Asset
Bozek has worked with European golfers and is known for his sharp course-reading skills. One golfer joked that he carries his yardage book like it’s a secret weapon. Another praised his ability to read greens, saying he sees breaks before anyone else. These skills make him a valuable asset to any golfer, especially Ryu.
The Perfect Partnership
Ryu and Bozek teamed up shortly after she joined the LPGA Tour. She needed someone who could read the course well and keep her calm under pressure. Their partnership began during a practice session when Ryu asked for help with a tricky downhill putt. Bozek gave her the right line, and she sank the putt effortlessly. Ryu laughed and said he earned the job in one putt.
A Bond Beyond the Course
Their bond is evident in a funny Instagram reel where Bozek stood behind Ryu, holding prewritten answers to rapid-fire questions. He nailed almost every answer, showing how well he knows her. He guessed her favorite snack on the course was mango, her top cheat meal was ramen, and her favorite sport besides golf was baseball. He even knew her favorite part of the game was ball striking and that she loves K-pop. Their chemistry is undeniable, proving they understand each other perfectly.
The Impact on Ryu's Game
Bozek’s impact on Ryu’s game is significant. He analyzes everything—wind, green speed, and even the positions of other players. He helps her find the best angles for her shots and draws lines that play to her strengths. His constant reminders help her stay focused and composed, even under pressure. This trust and communication allow Ryu to play aggressively while maintaining control, leading to more top finishes.
The Financial Side
As for Bozek’s earnings, caddies typically receive a weekly base salary plus a percentage of their golfer’s winnings. For wins, they usually get 10%. For example, Ryu’s $450,000 win at Black Desert in 2025 could have earned Bozek around $45,000. With Ryu’s 2025 season earnings at approximately $803,685, Bozek’s annual income from their partnership is likely substantial.
A Strong and Growing Relationship
The relationship between Ryu and Bozek is strong and continues to grow. Their teamwork and mutual understanding are key to her success on the course.
