PETER ALLISS has died aged 89.
Widely regarded as the BBC’s ‘voice of golf’, Alliss passed away ‘peacefully’ after a short illness.
A legendary player in his own right, Alliss became a fans’ favourite when he transitioned into the broadcasting booth in 1961.
He subsequently became the BBC’s lead golf commentator in 1978, and remained an integral figure in their coverage of the sport to the end, having commentated on last month’s Masters.
Alliss performed the role from his home in Surrey, due to his own health as much as the coronavirus pandemic.
He had been hospitalised in September with illness, but the father of six wasn’t expected to hang up his microphone until after the Ryder Cup.
Director of BBC Sport, Barbara Slater said: “Peter was the voice of golf. He was an absolute master of his craft with a unique ability to capture a moment with a magical turn of phrase that no one else could match.
“Following a highly distinguished playing career, where he won 20 titles and played in eight Ryder Cups, his broadcasting career spanned an extraordinary 60 years.
“Just last month, at the incredible age of 89, he was doing what he loved – commentating for the BBC on the Masters Golf.
“He transcended his sport as one of the greatest broadcasters of his generation. He will be terribly missed and our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time.”
Keith Pelley, Chief Executive Officer of the European Tour added: “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.
“Our thoughts are with his wife Jackie and the Alliss family.”
BBC Director General Tim Davie said: “No one told the story of golf quite like Peter Alliss. He captured golf’s drama with insight, wisdom, and humanity. He was a legendary commentator who brought the game to life for millions of us.”
Fellow BBC stalwart Gary Lineker wrote: “Deeply saddened to hear that Peter Alliss has passed away.
“A wonderfully witty and truly brilliant commentator. Golf will never be the same. #RIPPeter”.
And Barry McGuigan added: “So sad to hear of the passing of the wonderful Peter Alliss RIP, he was one of the most relaxed informative and brilliant commentators in all of sports. Deepest sympathies to his family.”
