Peter Alliss, the BBC’s legendary ‘voice of golf’, dies at 89, less than a month after commentating on the Masters from home despite his failing health
Peter Alliss, the former BBC commentator known as ‘the voice of golf’, has died at the age of 89, the European Tour has announced.
Alliss, who won more than 20 tournaments during his career and played on eight Ryder Cup teams, died on Saturday evening at his home in Surrey.
A statement on behalf of the Alliss family read: ‘It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of golfing and broadcast legend Peter Alliss. Peter’s death was unexpected but peaceful. Peter was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and his family ask for privacy at this difficult time.
‘Having enjoyed great success as a player, Peter began his legendary broadcasting career with the BBC in 1961, going on to become our lead golf commentator in 1978.
‘His knowledge and love of the game, along with his exceptional ability to tell stories, cemented him as one of the best in the business, and he became known as simply ‘The Voice of Golf’.
‘His inimitable tone, humour and command of the microphone will be sorely missed, his often legendary commentaries will be long remembered.
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, 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.’
European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley 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.’