Faldo, Caddy Part Ways

Fanny Sunesson, who carried Nick Faldo's bag at the height of his career and faithfully stood by him during his deepest slump, is leaving to find new work.

Of all the prominent caddies who have either quit or lost their jobs this year, none was more recognizable than Sunesson, the sturdy Swede who wore her long blonde curls in a ponytail and earned respect from a male-dominated industry with her work ethic.

Sunesson caddied for Fred Funk during the American Express Championship in Spain two weeks ago Faldo was not eligible to play that tournament but was back on Faldo's bag last week in the Taiheiyo Masters.

That apparently was their last tournament together after 10 seasons and four major championships.

"Our success is well documented, and I know it will be difficult to attain anything like it elsewhere," she told the golf.com Web site. "Nick has been very understanding of my decision, which has been extremely tough to make. However, I feel the time is now right for me to move on."

Speculation now shifts to Sunesson going to work for Sergio Garcia, the 19-year-old Spanish sensation who fired caddie Jerry Higginbotham this week. Garcia is scheduled to play in his first Skins Game next weekend in California.

For Faldo, the decision was a crushing blow in a year of changes.

Despite the turmoil in his life, Sunesson was the one constant, a relationship that lasted longer than either of Faldo's two marriages. Faldo got rid of longtime swing coach David Leadbetter a year ago, but most people figured Sunesson would be with him for the rest of his career.

"I am very saddened and disappointed at Fanny's decision," Faldo said. "She has been a consistent factor in my life over the past 10 years, both on and off the course, and during that time we have become great friends.

"I fully understand her decision, and she goes with my goodwill and gratitude for the contribution she made to my success."

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