Phil Mickelson Masters preparations dealt major blow as he releases emotional statement

Phil Mickelson has been joined by his brother Tim on the back for the past eight years, but the caddie has decided to walk away from the role just weeks before the Masters.

Phil Mickelson is searching for a new caddie as the Masters tournament approaches, following his split with his brother Tim, who had been his caddie for eight years.

Mickelson took to social media on Tuesday to confirm the news, releasing an emotional statement in tribute to his brother’s efforts. “I’ve had some great accomplishments in my career and getting to share them with my brother Tim has been beyond special,” he wrote.

I’m very lucky to have had him on the bag for me the past eight years and as my brother for life. So much has changed since he was single and we started working together.

He’s found his life partner, Maranda, they’ve had their second son, and hopefully their family will continue to grow. While Tim is retiring from caddying, I’ll always cherish the many great moments we’ve shared on the course and I look forward to many more special moments off the course too.”

The pair enjoyed many a successful moment together on the course, with Mickelson winning three times with Tim on the bag. The most memorable came in May 2021, when the American became the oldest champion in major history, prevailing at the PGA Championship at Kiawah Island. Speaking after their victory three years ago, the caddie said: “This is obviously awesome.

Any win is special, but to win a major championship at this stage of his career, I definitely teared up for the first time since caddying for him four and a half years ago.” Heaping praise on his brother’s ability to become a major champion at 50, Tim added: “His will and desire to win now is as high as it’s ever been in my opinion

“It’s definitely higher than when I first started caddying for him. He still has the same enthusiasm for playing golf and competing as he did back in college.

He truly enjoys competing, whether it’s at a professional level like this or just playing at home with friends of varying skill levels.”

He thoroughly enjoys competing in golf against others.” Tim has stood by his brother since he chose to leave the PGA Tour and join LIV Golf after winning his sixth major.

Going forward, Mickelson will need to find a new partner as LIV Miami is happening next week, followed by the Masters at Augusta National a week later.

14 players from the breakaway league, including Mickelson, are participating in the first major of the year.

The league’s presence is limited because they are not officially recognized in the Official World Golf Ranking. Other notable players such as Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, and defending champion Jon Rahm will also be competing in the tournament.