From NRL Star to Golf Caddie: Ryan Papenhuyzen’s Unexpected Career Pivot
Ryan Papenhuyzen, a celebrated figure in the National Rugby League (NRL), has officially confirmed his ambitious plans to embark on a global adventure in 2026, trading his rugby boots for the green as a professional golf caddie. This significant career shift comes after his decision to step away from the NRL and the Melbourne Storm at the young age of 27, a move that sent ripples through the sporting world earlier this year. Papenhuyzen cited concerns for his long-term health as the primary driver behind his retirement from professional rugby league.
While Papenhuyzen had previously hinted at a desire to dedicate more time to golf in 2026, even participating in the Pro-Am tournament at the LIV Adelaide event in February, his recent confirmation marks the first time he has unequivocally declared his intention to become a full-time caddie. His primary role will be on the bag of fellow Australian golfer Daniel Gale, a partnership that signals a serious commitment to his new chosen profession.
Papenhuyzen recently revealed to AAP that he is set to commence a preparatory stint at the prestigious Tara Iti golf course in New Zealand. This immersive experience is designed to hone his skills and understanding of the caddie’s role, preparing him to be an effective “right-hand man” to a professional golfer. Following his time in New Zealand, he is slated to join the rescheduled Middle East swing of the DP World Tour’s secondary circuit, before continuing his journey across Europe.
“I played the other week at a course called Tara Iti and enquired that if Dubai didn’t go ahead (due to the war), would I be able to come over and caddie just for members, or just random people who rock up to play, and they said yes,” Papenhuyzen explained. “I’m going to fly over there for three weeks, and play and I guess learn a bit more of that craft. Majority of the year will be with Galey but if I have a few gaps here and there, I’m open to working with other people and I’ve put that out there if people need a caddie for a week.”
Positive Reception for Papenhuyzen’s Caddying Endeavours
The world of professional golf caddying is often populated by individuals with prior experience as professional golfers themselves. While Papenhuyzen may not possess this specific background, he has reported encouraging early feedback on his burgeoning caddying abilities.
“I had a bit of imposter syndrome early because you hear about caddies just being scratch golfers and former pros and so I was like well, I’ve played golf for a long time but my handicap is 11 so would I be good enough for this role?” he admitted. “But then I think with all the experience I’ve learned through footy and being in a high-performance environment and even just being around golfers and learning the mental side of it, I’ve got my own little touch on it. I’m aware I’m not the perfect caddie but I’m me as a caddie and I think that’s valuable to some people.”
Papenhuyzen’s NRL career was nothing short of stellar. He represented the Melbourne Storm in 113 games between 2019 and 2025, a period that saw him achieve significant success. His accolades include winning the NRL premiership in 2020 and earning the prestigious Clive Churchill Medal as the player of the grand final that same year.
Life Beyond the NRL: A New Focus on Golf and Business Ventures
Despite stepping away from the NRL, Papenhuyzen remains connected to the sport, keeping a watchful eye on the game and continuing his popular podcast with former Storm teammates Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes. However, he candidly admits that he doesn’t miss the rigours of professional rugby league, with golf now firmly established as his primary sporting passion.
Beyond his caddying ambitions, Papenhuyzen is also diversifying his interests and investing in the burgeoning world of sports technology. He has become an investor in an app named ‘Optimise Mind Performance’. This innovative venture sees him collaborating with six NFL players from the New England Patriots, highlighting his forward-thinking approach and his engagement with the broader sports industry beyond his playing days.
