Justin Thomas’s former caddie Jim ‘Bones’ Mackay returns to old job
Jim ‘Bones’ Mackay, the legendary caddie, is set to make a notable return as an on-course announcer for NBC Sports, beginning with the US Open on June 13. Mackay has signed a multi-year, full-time contract with NBC, rekindling a relationship that previously spanned from 2017 to 2021. Known for his extensive career as a beloved…
Jim ‘Bones’ Mackay, the legendary caddie, is set to make a notable return as an on-course announcer for NBC Sports, beginning with the US Open on June 13. Mackay has signed a multi-year, full-time contract with NBC, rekindling a relationship that previously spanned from 2017 to 2021. Known for his extensive career as a beloved caddie, most notably for Phil Mickelson for over 25 years, Mackay seamlessly transitioned to broadcasting seven years ago.
After his initial shift to media roles, Mackay briefly returned to caddying in 2021 for Justin Thomas, with whom he celebrated a victory at the 2022 PGA Championship at Southern Hills. Despite this success, Mackay has chosen to refocus on his broadcasting career, where he will provide commentary for significant events such as the upcoming US Open.
Sam Flood, the executive producer of NBC Sports and president of production, expressed his excitement about the long-term partnership with Mackay, stating, “He will be part of NBC Sports for years to come as we’re going to partner for a long time with him.” Mackay himself is enthusiastic about this new chapter, saying, “I’m delighted with the agreement and have no plans to caddie again in the near future. This is the perfect scenario for me and I couldn’t be more pleased.”
Mackay’s recent caddying stint with Justin Thomas concluded in March after the Valspar Championship. He is now dedicated full-time to his role as an announcer and plans to cover multiple tournaments throughout the year. “I’m going to do several (tournaments) this year. It’s a bit TBD and will have a more well-established schedule the next few years,” Mackay revealed.
For the remainder of 2024, NBC will broadcast key events like the British Open, all FedEx Cup Playoff events, and the PNC Championship. Mackay is committed to his new role and has indicated that only an extraordinary circumstance would draw him back to caddying. He explained, “Television is my No. 1 priority and I’ll do what I did before if someone is sick or between caddies and needs a guy for a week and it’s not an NBC event, then I’d be happy to help out. But beyond that, I will be doing TV primarily as far as what I do for a living.”
NBC Sports is also making significant enhancements to its US Open coverage. According to Flood, fans will benefit from two additional minutes of live footage per hour compared to last year. “We hear the comments and we know that we need to look for solutions. We’re working with our partners and figuring out ways to make sure as much golf as possible is going to be shown,” Flood stated.
Scottie Scheffler is currently the favorite to win the US Open, with Rory McIlroy close behind in the betting odds. Reigning champion Wyndham Clark is remembered for his thrilling victory over McIlroy by a single stroke last year. With Mackay’s return and NBC’s commitment to expanded coverage, fans can expect an exciting and immersive viewing experience.