Justin Rose & # 039; Mark Fulcher steps down to recover from heart surgery

Mark Fulcher (left) has distanced himself from his role after health problems

Justin Rose has said goodbye to former caddy Mark Fulcher, who needs more time to recover from heart surgery.

Fulcher, Rose & # 39; s assistant since 2008, had surgery in January to replace a heart valve.

He was next to today's world number three when he won his golf major, the 2013 US Open, and then Olympic gold during the 2016 Rio Games.

"I wish him all the best while he is working to become 100% healthy and fit," said the Olympic champion on Twitter.

"I also have no doubt that we will ride a 72nd late in the future late on a Sunday afternoon."

After an amazing 11 years with Fooch, our successful run is together for now ended

Justin Rose

Fulcher – nicknamed Fooch – celebrated eight PGA Touro wins with Rose, who won the FedEx Cup last year and reached the best in the world for a total of 12 weeks during their partnership.

After taking a break from caddy duties after his operation at the beginning of the year, Fulcher returned to work with his fellow Englishman at The Masters in April.

Rose missed the half cut there and finished in a disappointing part of 29th place in this month's PGA championship in New York.

Fulcher says he needs more time to fully recover and Rose has become Gareth's Lord, who performed the bag's duties earlier this year.

Lord, who previously worked for Rose & # 39; s Ryder Cup partner Henrik Stenson, stood by the English player when he won in Torrey Pines at the end of January.

"After an amazing 11 years with Fooch, our successful run together has now ended," Rose said.

"Fooch is obliged to take an indefinite leave of caddying to focus on his health and well-being after the heart procedure earlier this year. Medically advised that further recovery period is required."