Caddie storms out of Augusta after refusing to shed sandals

MATT FITZPATRICK, the reigning US Amateur champion and English rising sensation, has a pretty important week ahead of him given he's been grouped with defending Masters champion Adam Scott.

Unfortunately for the baby-faced 18-year-old from Sheffield, things have got off on the wrong foot as his caddie has stormed out of Augusta National after refusing to switch his sandals for trainers.

Due to a medical condition, Lorne Duncan, who was by Fitzpatrick's side when the teenage superstar won the silver medal at The Open last year, has to wear sandals - but according to Masters rules, this type of footwear is not allowed to stroll the hallowed turf.

And the news prompted a furious Duncan to retreat from Augusta to Myrtle Beach, shortly before taking to Twitter to voice his rage.

"I told the TD (tournament director) he was pathetic and I hate the place," said Duncan.

"Apparently aesthetics are more important than people."

Duncan's place will be taken by Northern Irishman Ricky Elliott, who caddies for American Brooks Koepka.