Justin Thomas has announced that he has parted ways with his longtime caddie, Jim “Bones” Mackay, ahead of the Masters next week. Thomas expressed gratitude for their time together and the memorable experiences they shared, including victories at the PGA Championship and Ryder Cups. Mackay, who previously caddied for Phil Mickelson for 25 years, returned to the bag for Thomas after a stint as a commentator for NBC and the Golf Channel. Despite Thomas’ struggles in 2023, he was still chosen by Zach Johnson to be on the Ryder Cup team due to his veteran presence.
Mackay has caddied for six major champions, including Mickelson and Thomas, with his most recent major victory at the 2022 PGA Championship. The Masters would have marked his 26th time caddying at the prestigious tournament. Thomas has been inconsistent in his performances this year, with mixed results at various tournaments. Although he missed the cut at the Genesis Invitational and The Players Championship, he has also had strong finishes, including a tie for third, sixth and two 12th-place finishes in four other events.
Despite the split with Mackay, Thomas will have someone else carrying his clubs at Augusta next week. The decision to part ways with his caddie comes as Thomas aims to improve his game and bounce back from a challenging season. Thomas expressed gratitude for the wisdom and support that Mackay provided during a tough stretch in his career. The two had shared unforgettable experiences together, including the 2022 PGA Championship win and Ryder Cup appearances.
Mackay’s vast experience as a caddie for major champions, as well as his insight and guidance, have been valuable assets to Thomas throughout their partnership. As Thomas navigates the ups and downs of professional golf, he will continue to seek the right support and resources to help him reach his full potential. The upcoming Masters tournament will mark a new chapter for Thomas as he adjusts to having a new caddie by his side. Despite the challenges he has faced, Thomas remains determined to improve his performance and strive for success on the golf course.
Moving forward, Thomas will need to focus on honing his skills and maintaining consistency in his game in order to achieve the level of success he desires. The support and guidance of a new caddie will play a crucial role in helping Thomas navigate the challenges of professional golf and make the necessary adjustments to his game. As he prepares for the Masters and future tournaments, Thomas will have the opportunity to showcase his talent and determination as he continues to pursue his goals in the sport. With a new caddie by his side, Thomas will aim to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead and work towards achieving his full potential on the golf course.
