Golf: Williams great for Scott Turner

Greg Turner. Photo / File

Former New Zealand No1 Greg Turner is backing Steve Williams to help take Adam Scott to his highest level yet.

After his messy split from Tiger Woods, Williams has linked up on a full time basis with the Australian Scott, who currently sits just outside the world top 20.

The 31-year-old Australian has been ranked as high as number three and has 19 career victories across the world. He has threatened to win majors but has yet to break through.

"He has been a helluva player but most people would say he is yet to realise the full extent of his ability," says Turner. "You would expect he had a good chance of winning majors and he hasn't done that yet. His short game isn't exceptional whereas the rest of his game is so I guess it is that half a shot around the greens that makes the difference."

While it can be hard to define the impact of a caddy, Turner says Williams could be just what Scott needs. "The main difference a caddy can have is on your mental attitude; your self belief; and Steve has always been pretty strong on that side of things. He is big on players not second guessing themselves - to back themselves and that is an area he could influence."

Turner also expects that Scott and Williams to hit it off from the outset, given they already have a close relationship

"Adam and Tiger were close so they would have spent a lot of time together on practice rounds so there will be some familiarity there already between Steve and Adam."

While some commentators this week have wondered whether Williams has garnered too much credit for the performance of Woods over their long association, Turner says the results speak for themselves.

"He's been attractive to some of the best golfers in the world so there has got to be a reason for that," says Turner. "There wouldn't be too many caddies out there with more experience than Steve; he brings experience, a history of what success feels like and a very strong work ethic."