BREAKING: Justin Thomas and Jim “Bones” Mackay part ways after 2 and a half years together

Justin Thomas surprised the golf world by announcing the end of his time with Jim “Bones” Mackay in charge of his bag. It was a move few could have predicted less than two weeks before the Masters Tournament.

The two-time major champion announced the end of his player-caddie relationship with Jim “Bones Mackay” in a post on his official social media profiles. Thomas thanked Mackay for his help and said he will continue to consider him a friend:

This is the text Thomas posted on social networks:

“While incredibly difficul for me to say, Bones and I have parted ways. I’m going to be forever thankful for him joining me on the bag in 2021. The things we’ve been able to accomplish together ~The PGA Championship in 2022, The Presidents Cup, The Ryder Cups were all unforgettable experiences. His wisdom on and off the course has been a blessing during a tough stretch of my career and he was there every step of the way.”

“I know there are great things coming for both of us down the road. I wish him the best of luck and will always count him and his family amongst my friends.”

Jim “Bones” Mackay served as Justin Thomas‘ full-time caddie from 2021 until this Wednesday, April 3, 2024. During this time, Thomas had several good results, most notably his second major title (2022 PGA Championship).

The year 2023 did not bring the results that Justin Thomas had hoped for and it is likely that this had some bearing on the decision reported this Wednesday. It is common for professional players to make changes to their team (including their caddie) when facing a winless streak.

However, Jim “Bones” Mackay is one of the most experienced and respected bagmen in world golf. To dispense with his services less than 10 days before the most important event of the year is a risky move for Justin Thomas.

The Impeccable Service Record of Jim “Bones” Mackay

Jim “Bones” Mackay was born in England but moved to Florida at the age of seven. He has been involved in golf since childhood and played up to the US college level. He later held other jobs within the golf industry until he began his career as a caddie.

He was quickly paired with high profile players. Mackay caddied for Larry Mize, Scott Simpson and Curtis Strange until 1992, when he was hired by then-rising star Phil Mickelson. It would be a relationship that would last 25 years.

With Mackay in charge of his bag, Phil Mickelson won five of his six major championships and 41 of his 45 PGA Tour events.

After his time with Mickelson ended, “Bones” worked as a golf commentator for the Golf Channel until he resumed his career as a full-time caddie to work with Justin Thomas.