Smooth preparation isn't always key to a good week at . Tommy Fleetwood proved that notion in 2024, enjoying his best-ever finish at Augusta despite being forced to make a drastic change before the tournament started.

The Englishman's hopes of challenging for the famous green jacket looked scuppered when his long-time caddie Ian Finnis had to withdraw from duty. The 45-year-old went down with a chest infection, leaving the star searching for a late replacement. He turned to the experienced Gray Moore, who previously served as the caddie master at Augusta.

Indeed, despite the unfamiliarity, the American came with pedigree. Known as 'Mr Augusta', Moore had been working at golf's most famous major venue since 1996, and previous clients included the iconic Tom Watson. At 70, he was the oldest caddie at the Masters in 2024.

Before last year, Fleetwood's best Masters showing was a tie for 14th in 2022. However, with Moore alongside him, a final round of 69 was enough for an overall total of four-under-par, tying him for third with Colin Morakawa and Max Homa.

That was still , but enough for a huge windfall in excess of £836,000. Moore, 71, also benefitted handsomely from his role over the four days.

Traditionally, caddies receive 10 per cent of the prize money if their player wins a tournament, seven to eight per cent for a top-10 finish, and five per cent for anything else. By those calculations, Moore would have pocketed more than £83,000. Not bad for a man not even scheduled to carry bags last year.

Fleetwood, however, is due to have the trusted Finnis alongside him when he tees off today as he seeks his maiden major title. The 34-year-old gets underway at 6.34pm UK time alongside Wyndham Clark and 2023 champion Jon Rahm.

He appeared relaxed as he took to the course for Wednesday's par three event. Fleetwood was all smiles alongside young son Frankie, who joined him for his nine holes and even showed off his own swing ability to the patrons watching.