MARK McCORMACK:The founding father, McCormack was a young lawyer when he agreed to become Arnold Palmer's agent in 1960, and marked the start of International Management Group (IMG).

The relationship was based on a handshake and a contract between the two men was never signed, despite it being one of the most valuable and enduring relationships in modern sport. He went on to sign Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Greg Norman and Nick Faldo (pictured right), among many others.

MARK STEINBERG/IMG

Steinberg is arguably the most powerful agent in the sport, having negotiated most of Tiger Woods deals since becoming the player’s agent in 1998. Steinberg also acts as Annika Sorrenstam’s agent and heads the company’s golf division from his base in the US. Recent speculation as to his commitment to IMG was fuelled when he courted arch rival agency Creative Artists (CAA).

GUY KINNINGS/IMG

Head of IMG’s European golf business and personal agent to Colin Montgomerie. Kinnings was Monty’s best man at his wedding.

ANDREW “CHUBBY” CHANDLER/ISM

Chandler’s International Sports Management company is the main competitor to IMG. Clients include Darren Clarke, Lee Westwood, Ernie Els, Rory McIlroy and Paul McGinley.

JOHAN ELIOT/SPORTYARD

Eliot owns the Stockholm-based agency Sportyard, whose clients include Robert Karlsson, Henrik Stenson, Niclas Fasth, Johan Edfors and rising German star Martin Kaymer.

CONOR RIDGE/HORIZON SPORTS MANAGEMENT

Graeme McDowell joined from ISM to a stable of young Irish players including David Higgins, Stephen Browne, Michael Hoey and Colm Moriarty.