Veteran golf commentator Peter Alliss, who became known as the ‘voice of golf’ to fans in Britain, has died at the age of 89.
SUCCESSFUL PLAYING CAREER
Alliss had covered the sport for the BBC for over half a century after retiring from a successful playing career.
In a statement, the Aliss family described his death as “unexpected but peaceful”.
The Englishman had covered Dustin Johnson’s win at the Masters just last month.
“It is with great sadness we announce the passing of golfing and broadcast legend Peter Alliss,” the statement added.
“Peter was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and his family ask for privacy at this difficult time.”
The Englishman won 31 tournaments during his career and played on eight Ryder Cup teams when the biennial event was a contest just between Great Britain and Ireland and the United States.
He never won a major championship, but had five top-10 finishes at the British Open, finishing just four strokes adrift in 1954.
European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Peter Alliss, truly one of golf’s greats.
“Peter made an indelible mark on everything he did in our game, but especially as a player and a broadcaster, and he leaves a remarkable legacy.”
Aliss’ television career began in 1961, and he became lead commentator in 1978 after retiring.
Alliss’ first experience as a commentator came at the 1961 Open Championship as he combined his role with finishing eighth at Royal Birkdale.
GAVE ‘JAMES BOND’ SEAN CONNERY LESSONS
That helped raise his profile to such an extent that he was chosen to give Sean Connery golf lessons before the actor played James Bond in the 1964 film ‘Goldfinger’.
Always relaxed behind the microphone he became one of the few broadcasters to become synonymous with his sport.
Alliss became a household voice and in 2012 was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in the Lifetime Achievement category.
