Jim “Bucky” Buchert is Justin Thomas Thomas’s new Caddie. Justin Thomas is one of the biggest stars on the PGA Tour. At 29, he has won 15 events and one major. But nearing his career peak, he has altered his team. In 2023, he’ll have a new caddie in his bag.
After working for Phil Mickelson for over 25 years, Mackay became Thomas’ caddie in 2017. Their partnership was successful both on and off the course, as evidenced by Thomas’ win at the 2022 PGA Championship and total prize money earnings of more than $70 million while they worked together.
Nonetheless, Thomas felt it was about time he gave up and let a fresh voice take control of the bag. In January 2023, he parted ways with 57-year-old Mackay.
Mackay is replaced by Jim “Bucky” Buchert, who is significantly younger. Buchert is only 32 years old but provides much energy and a different approach to Thomas’s team. Buchert spent some time before joining Thomas with Luke List while working as a caddie in the PGA Tour.
Thomas first had Buchert on his bag at the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii in early January 2023. The two seemed to hit it off immediately, with Thomas praising Buchert’s preparation and relaxed demeanor on the course.
So why did the former World No. 1 decide to make a caddie change? Thomas said he wanted to try something new as he entered the prime golfing years between ages 28-35. Having had tremendous success with Mackay, Thomas felt it was the right time to get a fresh perspective and new voice to help take his game to even greater heights.
While the decision was not an easy one, as Thomas had developed a close relationship with Mackay over the years, he felt the upbeat and motivated Buchert could provide a spark. At 32, Buchert is just hitting his prime caddie years, while the 57-year-old Mackay was nearing the end of his looping career.
Only time will tell if the new player-caddie duo of Thomas and Buchert can replicate or even exceed the immense success of the Thomas-Mackay partnership. But the younger Buchert provides stamina, drive, and a long future for Thomas’ bag. The move highlights Thomas’ determination to continue improving and winning majors as one of the sport’s elite players.
