After 25 years Phil Mickelson splits with caddie Jim “Bones” Mackay
One of golf’s most notable duos have decided to call it a day.
Phil Mickelson has split with his long time caddy Jim “Bones” Mackay after 25 years together. Both players have released statements (see below) on the mutual split that will see Mickelson’s brother on the bag for the next few years.
It was an incredible partnership. Few caddies last more than a few tournaments with some golfers but Mackay oversaw Mickelson’s five major victories, two WGC wins and 11 Ryder Cups.
Golf writer John Huggan probably summed up the almost everlasting relationship best on Twitter:
A record falls…phil only player I can think of who has had same caddie, wife and agent his whole career
— John Huggan (@johnhuggan) June 20, 2017
But if you want some idea of the sort of conversations they used to have with each other… you should check out this great video posted by Skratch. Golf gold. Golf nerds.
Phil and Bones have officially split.
It doesn’t get any better than this exchange from 2012. pic.twitter.com/zll38kLHsh
— Skratch (@Skratch) June 20, 2017
Mickelson’s statement:
After 25 very rewarding and memorable years, Bones and I have mutually decided to end our player-caddie relationship. Our decision is not based on a single incident. We just feel it’s the right time for a change.
Bones is one of the most knowledgable and dedicated caddies in the world. He is always prepared and has the ability to make decisions in pressure packed situations. Bones is without a doubt one of the most thoughtful people that I have ever known. The next player to work with him will obviously be very lucky.
My relationship and history with Bones far exceeds golf. He has been one of the most important and special people in my life since the day we met and I will always be grateful for everything he has done for me. Amy and I, and our children, will always think of Bones, Jen, Oliver, and Emma as family.
We are looking forward to sharing life and friendship with them forever. My brother Tim will be on my bag for the rest of the year. Bones has not used his veto this year andI heard a rumor that he is trying to pass his veto to Tim. For the record, vetoes are non-transferable.Sincerely,
Phil
And Bones’ statement:
After an amazing 25-year run, Phil and I have mutually decided to go our separate ways. Player-caddie relationships don’t often last that long. I will always be grateful that I was around to witness so much of Phil’s career. When Phil hired me in 1992, I had one dream: to caddie in a Ryder Cup. Last year, at Hazeltine, Phil played in his 11th straight Ryder Cup. It was so cool to have a front row seat.
I wish Phil nothing but the best. His game is still at an elite level, and when he wins in the future (definitely the Masters), I will be among the first to congratulate him.
I do want to say for the record that I did not use my “veto” this year. I would like to pass it along to Tim, in all its glory.Thank you Phil.
Sincerely,
Jim Bones Mackay