Golf:Steve Williams was "shocked and disappointed" to find out former world number one Tiger Woods no longer wants him as a caddie after a working relationship dating back to March 1999.

Woods, currently sidelined with a knee and Achilles injury which kept him of the US Open and last week’s British Open, made the announcement on his official website.

"I want to express my deepest gratitude to Stevie for all his help, but I think it's time for a change," said Woods on www.tigerwoods.com. "Stevie is an outstanding caddie and a friend and has been instrumental in many of my accomplishments. I wish him great success in the future."

Williams appeared somewhat taken aback by the decision and issued a statement through his own website www.KiwiCaddy.co.nz.

“Following the completion of the AT&T National I am no longer caddying for Tiger after he informed me that he needed to make a change. After 13 years of loyal service needless to say this came as a shock,” said Williams.

“Given the circumstances of the past 18 months, working through Tiger's scandal, a new coach and with it a major swing change and Tiger battling through injuries, I am very disappointed to end our very successful partnership at this time.

“I have had the opportunity to work of late for Australian Adam Scott and will now caddy for him on a permanent basis. Having started my caddying career with Australian great Peter Thompson and working for Greg Norman in the 80's I am excited about the future working for another Australian,” added the New Zealander.

Woods (35), who has won 14 Majors, further announced that he has not yet decided on a replacement as he continues his recovery from injuries to his left leg and has not made a decision on when he plans to return to competitive action.