TIGER WOODS has quashed speculation that his long-time caddie Steve Williams might lose his job after making derogatory comments about world number three Phil Mickelson.

"What ended up happening is I communicated with Phil and we have discussed it," Woods told reporters on the eve of Thursday's opening round at the Chevron World Challenge.

"I talked to Stevie about it and he feels bad about what happened. It's something that none of us really wanted to have happen, but it's over and done with and we put it to bed."

Asked if Williams would continue working as his caddie when Woods returns to the PGA Tour next year, the world number one replied: "Yes he is."