Justin Thomas and Caddie Jim ‘Bones’ Mackay Split Before the Masters
In a surprising turn of events, golfer Justin Thomas has parted ways with his caddie, Jim “Bones” Mackay, just one week before the Masters. This ends a nearly three-year partnership highlighted by significant victories, including the 2022 PGA Championship.
Justin Thomas, known for his 15 tour wins, has been facing a challenging phase in his career, not securing a win since the 2022 PGA Championship and missing last year’s FedEx Cup playoffs. His ranking has also slipped to 28th worldwide.
Jim “Bones” Mackay is a seasoned caddie, having spent 25 years with Phil Mickelson before moving into broadcasting and then teaming up with Thomas. Their collaboration brought Thomas critical wins and Mackay’s experience offered him invaluable guidance.
The announcement of their split was made by Thomas on social media, where he expressed his difficulty in making this decision and his gratitude towards Mackay for their time together. The exact reasons for the split weren’t disclosed, leaving the golf community speculating.
With the Masters looming, there’s speculation that Matt Minister, who previously caddied for Patrick Cantlay, might be Thomas’s choice for the tournament. As for Mackay, his next steps, whether in caddying or broadcasting, remain to be seen.
The partnership between Thomas and Mackay was more than just about golf; it was a period of personal and professional growth for Thomas, with Mackay’s wisdom being a significant part of his journey. As they move on to new endeavors, the respect and gratitude they have for each other are evident.
This split, while unexpected, underscores the dynamic nature of professional golf and the importance of adaptability. As the golf world watches, Thomas’s performance in the upcoming Masters will be keenly observed, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career.