Phil and Bones Part Ways after 25 Years on Tour

They were the most enduring of partnerships, defying the often precarious and short-lived dynamic between player and caddie, but it has been confirmed that Phil Mickelson and long-term companion on tour Jim "Bones" Mackay have parted company after 25 years. 

Reported on Twitter by the popular blog No Laying Up, both men released statements confirming that it was a mutual decision to split after a successful two and a half decades together that has seen the big Californian win five major championships and 41 titles on the PGA Tour. 

Statement from Bones and Phil. They are parting ways after 25 years. pic.twitter.com/FVI3vSvIA9

— No Laying Up (@NoLayingUp) June 20, 2017

It has come as a shock to the golf world, not least because Mackay was scouting at Erin Hills in the event that Mickelson made his tee time at the U.S. Open. Coming off double knee replacement surgery last year, the widely respected caddie will now become a valued asset for any professional looking for a new man by his side, with his undeniable experience at the highest level in majors and Ryder Cups likely to see him in high demand. 

Here is Phil's statement pic.twitter.com/EBgOQ9aHrx

— No Laying Up (@NoLayingUp) June 20, 2017

For Mickelson, his golf coach brother Tim - who works with talented Spaniard Jon Rahm - will be on the bag for the remainder of this year, including the upcoming Open and PGA Championships. 

Famously, Bones had one "veto" to use each year, where he could overrule a decision made by Mickelson, but that hadn't yet been used this season, but the 11-time Ryder Cup player has made it clear that privilege would not transfer over to his brother. 

Two men who have been inseparable for a generation, it's going to be fascinating to see what comes next, particularly in the case of Jim Mackay, who will have aroused the interest of many a top golfer due to this surprising news.

Laurel and Hardy, the Two Ronnies and Morecambe and Wise. Entertainment has been littered with popular double acts through the years, and Phil and Bones were the most enthralling and recognisible example within golf.