Caddies fight at Australian Open practice area

Golf officials are investigating a fight between two caddies near the practice chipping area at The Lakes before the first round of the Australian Open.

PGA Tour of Australasia officials said Friday that Grant Buchanan and Matt Kelly had to be separated after coming to blows as their players prepared for the opening round. Buchanan is James Nitties' caddie, and Kelly works for Marc Leishman.

The caddies were interviewed by tour officials and could face disciplinary action.

Tournament director Andrew Langford-Jones said decision on any disciplinary action would be determined within a week.

"Our members in no way condone this behavior, and we are saddened the incident has drawn attention away from this great tournament," he said.

Leishman had a 2-under 70 on Thursday, leaving him four strokes behind leader John Senden.

Nitties shot 77. He failed to earn a 2013 PGA Tour card Monday in California in the qualifying tournament.