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, 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 led the tributes, saying: “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.”