Philwon’t missold bagman
From Back Page announcing a split with faithful sidekick Jim “Bones” Mackay after an incredible 25 years together.
Mackay worked for Lefty during 41 of his 42 PGA Tour wins, all five Major triumphs, 11 Ryder Cups and 11 Presidents Cups.
Mickelson’s brother Tim will carry his bag this week at Birkdale while Mackay works for TV but the player reckons it’s no big deal.
He said: “A week like this, it is difficult for a caddie to pull a club here because you have two or three good options.
“It is a very difficult place for a caddy to have input. You have such a variety of shots to hit rather than say, ‘It is 135 yards so that’s a full pitching wedge.’
“This week you have to have good feel as a player.”
Mickelson has his own plans for Southport, such as carrying two three irons for the tournament rather than relying on his driver.
The 47-year-old, who hasn’t won a tournament since his Open victory at Muirfield, said: “We came out here and spent Saturday and Sunday in the conditions and wind and there wasn’t a driver for me until the 15th given the way I want to play the course and avoid the bunkers.
“I will put in the three wood I used at Muirfield in 2013. It is a much easier club for me to hit low.
“I have also added two three irons – one is a normal three iron and one is more of a driving iron.
“I am hoping the weather comes in.
“If that happens I believe the ability to get the ball on the ground, use short game and get up and down could really be a factor to help get up the leaderboard into contention.”