The 1999 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 was a memorable event for Phil Mickelson and his caddie, Jim “Bones” Mackay. Mickelson, in the final pairing with Payne Stewart, played one of the most theatrical closing rounds in U.S. Open history. Despite Mickelson’s wife being days away from giving birth, he continued to compete, and Stewart eventually won the championship with an iconic fist-pump and a memorable embrace with Mickelson. The beeper that Mickelson had given to Mackay to alert him of any news regarding the birth of his child remained dormant throughout the tournament, adding to the suspense of the event.
Mackay, now a part of the NBC broadcast team, has reflected on his experiences from that historic U.S. Open. He shares insights on this year’s tournament, potential dark horses, and his winner pick. He believes that players who are not necessarily strong chippers may have an advantage at Pinehurst due to the course’s unique characteristics. Mackay also shares his thoughts on Xander Schauffele’s potential to win another major this year and praises his mental toughness on the golf course.
Regarding Scottie Scheffler, Mackay sees similarities between him and past legends like Jack Nicklaus. His observations of Scheffler’s game and mentality on the course have been impressive, and he believes Scheffler is poised for continued success in his career, possibly even reaching double-digit majors. Despite the challenges faced by Scheffler, Mackay is confident that he will secure another victory this year.
Looking back on the 1999 U.S. Open, Mackay recalls the uncertainty surrounding Mickelson’s potential early departure due to the birth of his child. Despite the dramatic circumstances, Mickelson continued to compete, showcasing his determination and focus on the course. Mackay also highlights other notable moments of the event, including David Duval’s remarkable performance with bandaged hands and Payne Stewart’s triumphant victory.
Transitioning to his broadcasting career, Mackay discusses the appeal of working as an on-course analyst and compares it to his previous role as a caddie. He acknowledges the unique challenges and rewards of both professions, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and improvement in each role. Mackay also shares insights into his experiences with player-caddie conversations on live air, showcasing his ability to provide informative commentary while maintaining professionalism.
Reflecting on his unexpected journey in golf, Mackay expresses gratitude for the opportunities and experiences he has had in the sport. From caddying in multiple Ryder Cups to transitioning into broadcasting, his career has been filled with diverse and intriguing storylines. Mackay’s passion for golf and dedication to his craft shine through in his insightful analysis and thoughtful predictions for the future of the game. His long-shot pick for the 2024 U.S. Open, Corey Conners, exemplifies his keen eye for talent and potential sleeper candidates in major championships.
