Teen golf sensation Miles Russell has secured the services of seasoned caddie Paul Tesori for the upcoming Isco Championship, a PGA Tour event scheduled to take place in Louisville. This strategic partnership aims to bolster Russell's performance as he continues to make waves in the professional golf circuit.
Rising Star Miles Russell Teams Up with Veteran Caddie Paul Tesori for Isco Championship
In a significant development for the golfing world, Miles Russell, the 17-year-old golf prodigy and two-time AJGA Rolex Player of the Year, has confirmed that Paul Tesori will be on his bag for the Isco Championship this week. The tournament, a PGA Tour opposite-field event, is set to be held at Hurstbourne Country Club in Louisville.
Tesori, a highly respected figure in the caddying community, is taking a break from his regular duties with tour veteran Webb Simpson to join forces with Russell. Tesori's extensive experience includes a notable stint with Tom Kim and a long and successful partnership with Simpson, which saw them clinch victories at the 2012 U.S. Open and the 2018 Players Championship.
Tesori expressed his enthusiasm for mentoring young talent, stating, "I love to work. I love what I do. I love mentoring. I just kind of love that role." His commitment to Russell comes at a pivotal time for the young golfer, who has already achieved remarkable milestones. In 2024, Russell became the youngest player to successfully make a cut on the Korn Ferry Tour. Last month, he earned his spot in the U.S. Open, where he notably had Charlie Woods caddying for him, and shared an emotional Father's Day moment with his own father on the final hole.
Russell's instructor, Ramon Bescansa, who caddied for the initial 71 holes at the U.S. Open, has high praise for the teenager, remarking that Russell possesses a "27-year-old head on his body." This maturity, combined with his exceptional talent, makes Russell a truly special prospect in golf.
Tesori, a Jacksonville native residing near Russell, is also acquainted with Russell's coach, former touring pro Steve Wheatcroft, who serves as both a sparring partner and a mentor to the young star. Tesori's three decades of experience, marked by partnerships with top players like Vijay Singh, Sean O'Hair, and Tom Kim, will undoubtedly provide invaluable guidance to Russell. His recent victory at the Florida Senior Open further underscores his deep understanding of the game.
As Webb Simpson scales back his tour schedule, Tesori has been afforded more time at home, which he has utilized to hone his own game. He sees immense potential in Russell and is prepared to assist him in pursuing prestigious titles like the U.S. Junior Amateur and the U.S. Amateur this summer, should the opportunity arise. Tesori humorously noted the generational gap, stating, "My daughter's 20 years old... and I'm going to work for a 17-year-old."
The collaboration between Miles Russell and Paul Tesori is poised to be one of the most talked-about pairings at the Isco Championship, as the seasoned caddie guides a rising star on his journey to golfing greatness.
This partnership between a rising star and a veteran caddie offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of golf, where experience and youthful talent converge. Tesori's willingness to mentor Russell not only highlights the importance of guidance in a highly competitive sport but also speaks volumes about Russell's perceived potential. It will be compelling to observe how this dynamic duo performs and what further achievements this collaboration will unlock for the young prodigy in the demanding world of professional golf.
