Golf Links: Friday, July 7 news and updates

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Phil Mickelson and Jim McKay at the 145th Open Championship at Royal Troon on July 15, 2016 in Troon, Scotland. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

What’s next for Bones?

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There’s been an almost obsessive speculation about Jim ‘Bones’ McKay’s future since he and Phil Mickelson announced the termination of their perfect on-course marriage. Lefty said he knew Bones would have no difficulty picking up a new caddying gig. Some speculated that he might gravitate to an emerging star. Jon Rahm’s name was tossed around.

The waiting’s over – it didn’t take long for Bones to ink a nice deal with NBC Sports to become the first caddie-turned-on-course-reporter and he’s starting quickly. Bones debuts in his new pro role at The Open on July 20! That’s a two-week break for Bones! He probably doesn’t need much more than that. He’s going to be explaining the game and the golf course and the shots demanded to us instead of Lefty!

Spieth will miss the John Deere, again.

Jordan Spieth notched his first pro victory at the 2013 John Deere Classic and in 2014 he prepared for his failed run at a third consecutive major championship – The Open – by playing the John Deere, declaring his unshakable loyalty to the event that launched his ascent to the top of the OWGR. Then came last year, when the Deere was scheduled opposite the Rio Olympics. Curiously, although Spieth had backed out of competing in Rio, he also backed out of competing at the Deere.

Now Jordan Spieth, who’s preparing for another run at The Open victory, has announced that he’ll not be teeing it up next week at the Deere.

More from Golf News

"I’m sorry I won’t be at this year’s John Deere Classic. I love the tournament, I love the golf course, and, more importantly, I love the people. . . the fans—the entire community—everyone involved makes that event such a special stop for the PGA TOUR. While my schedule doesn’t permit me returning to the Quad Cities this year, I plan to be back in the future."

Lefty’s new golf course project

Phil Mickelson is teaming up with The Trump Organization and Indonesian land developer, MNC Land, to renovate the former Nirwana Golf Course in Bali.

Mickelson enthused,

"The site is breathtaking and we will create a golf experience that presents both exciting options for players on the course and memories for a lifetime."

The Bali project further extends The Trump Organization golf empire and will add, as well, to Mickelson’s design resume.

Next: European Tour's controversial cell phone policy

Who are you following at the Irish Open? The Greenbrier? Thornberry Creek? How’s your fantasy golf team doing? Is it looking like they’ll all make the cut? Check back with Golf Links Saturday morning and get ready for the weekend.

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