Tommy Fleetwood Emotionally welcomes back His Long term Caddie

Tommy Fleetwood is set to have his long-term caddie, Ian Finnis, back at his side for The Open, bringing a heartwarming change to his support team. Fleetwood, who finished joint-10th last year, aims to mount a title challenge at Royal Troon later this month.

Finnis returns after undergoing open heart surgery just months ago. The 44-year-old caddie is well-known on tour, partly due to his long-standing partnership with Fleetwood and his imposing six-foot-seven frame. Finnis has faced significant health issues in recent months, missing the Valero Texas Open and the Masters Tournament due to a prolonged infection.

At the end of April, Finnis revealed he had undergone open heart surgery and was on the road to recovery. Now, it’s confirmed that he will be at Fleetwood’s side for The Open. In May, Finnis described his health struggles, calling himself “very lucky” after a bacterial infection worsened his condition.

“They are not exactly sure what happened, but bacteria got into a hole in my heart that I’d lived with previously without problems and then ate away both valves,” Finnis told The Telegraph. “The amazing surgeon, Mr. Generali, fitted a metal valve and miraculously fixed the other valve, saving me from needing a tissue one which would have required replacement every seven years.”

Finnis expressed immense gratitude to Mr. Generali and the NHS staff who had him attempting to walk the day after surgery in intensive care. Fleetwood has been in close contact with Finnis throughout the ordeal, emphasizing the importance of health over rushing back.

Fleetwood is delighted to have Finnis back as he prepares for The Open. Their six-year partnership has yielded seven tournament victories and helped Fleetwood crack the world’s top 10 rankings. Finnis’ return is a significant boost to Fleetwood’s quest for glory at Royal Troon.