In a recent interview, Jim “Bones” Mackay, former caddie for golfer Phil Mickelson, reflected on the thrilling final round of the 2016 Open Championship between Mickelson and Henrik Stenson. Mackay described the quality of golf played by both players as “mind-blowing” and noted that the atmosphere at Royal Troon was electric, with the spectators creating a buzz that he had rarely experienced. Despite the excitement of the event, not everyone was pleased with the pace of play, as an official approached Mackay during the final round and requested that the players speed up their play. However, Mackay was so captivated by the competition unfolding before him that he chose to ignore the official’s request and simply enjoy the moment.
During the 2016 Open Championship, Mickelson and Stenson engaged in a fierce battle for the title, with Mickelson shooting a 63 in the first round and leading after the second round. The third round saw both players dueling it out, with Stenson ultimately emerging as the winner after shooting a 63 in the final round. Mickelson’s exceptional play, including 14 birdies and an eagle over the course of the tournament, was not enough to secure him the victory, but he still looks back on the experience fondly. Mickelson emphasized the importance of enjoying the process of competition and relished the opportunity to compete head-to-head against Stenson over the weekend.
Mackay shared a “little story” from the final round of the 2016 Open Championship, recalling a moment on the 13th tee when an official approached him with concerns about the players’ position on the golf course and their pace of play. Despite the official’s request, Mackay chose to focus on the incredible golf being played and the privilege of witnessing such high-level competition in person. Reflecting on his career as Mickelson’s caddie, Mackay expressed gratitude for the experiences and memories he has accumulated, including his time at the 2016 Open Championship at Royal Troon.
In addition to his memories of the 2016 Open Championship, Mackay also shared stories from the 1999 U.S. Open in a recent interview. His insights and reflections offer a unique perspective on the world of professional golf and the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shape memorable tournaments. As an on-course analyst for NBC’s coverage of the Open, Mackay continues to contribute his expertise and passion for the game to enhance the viewing experience for fans. His intimate knowledge of Mickelson’s game and strategies provides valuable insights for viewers seeking a deeper understanding of the sport.
As a Senior Editor at Golf.com and Golf Magazine, Nick Piastowski has covered a wide range of golf-related topics, including player profiles, tournament coverage, and industry trends. His passion for the game is evident in his writing, as he seeks to capture the excitement and complexity of golf at the professional level. Whether delving into the intricacies of a player-caddie relationship or analyzing the strategic decisions made on the course, Piastowski’s articles provide readers with an in-depth look at the world of golf. With a background in journalism and a keen eye for detail, he brings a unique perspective to his role as a golf editor.
