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Voice of Golf Peter Alliss dies aged 89

Peter Alliss

Peter Alliss, the BBC Commentator known as The Voice of Golf, has died aged 89.

It was announced on Sunday, December 6, that the legendary man behind the mic had passed away unexpectedly just a month after last appearing in the commentary box during the 2020 Masters.

“It is with great sadness we announce the passing of golfing and broadcast legend Peter Alliss,” the Alliss family said in a statement confiming his death.

“His inimitable tone, humour and command of the microphone will be sorely missed, his often legendary commentaries will be long remembered.

“Peter was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and his family ask for privacy at this difficult time.”

Alliss, the son of former golfer Percy, enjoyed a professional career of his own. He won 31 tournaments before moving into media and golf commentary.

Along with his father, Alliss created history when becoming the first father-son duo to contest the Ryder Cup when representing Great Britain against the United States.

Alliss became the lead golf commentator for the BBC in 1978 when he retired from the game as a player. He remain in the position until his untimely death.

It was his quick wit and one-liners that made golf fans love Alliss, with many remembering some of his best on social media after the announcement of his death.

Keith Pelley, chief executive officer of the European Tour, was one of many to pay tribute to Alliss. He 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.”

Thomas Bjorn tweeted: “What a great man. Great voice and a true friend of our game. Peter was a brilliant broadcaster but an even better player. We will miss him dearly but we should also celebrate a life well lived. Thoughts are with the Alliss family.”