Tributes have poured in from across the world of golf and broadcasting after the death of the celebrated BBC commentator Peter Alliss at the age of 89.
Alliss, a former professional player who first undertook broadcasting duties in 1961, became the lead man for the corporation’s golf coverage 17 years later. He was widely depicted as the voice of golf.
In a statement released on Sunday, Alliss’s family explained the father of six’s death was “unexpected but peaceful”. Alliss had delivered television commentary for the BBC during the Masters just last month, from his home in Surrey. He had been expected to retire after next year’s Ryder Cup, thereby completing what would have been a remarkable six decades in the commentary booth.
“His inimitable tone, humour and command of the microphone will be sorely missed, his often legendary commentaries will be long remembered,” read the statement which confirmed Alliss’s passing. “Peter was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and his family ask for privacy at this difficult time.”
Having left school at 14 and following in the footsteps of his father, Percy, Alliss was a successful golfer in his own right. He won more than 30 professional tournaments at home and abroad. Alliss missed the cut in two Masters appearances but was a top 10 finisher in the Open Championship five times. Alliss represented GB&I eight times in Ryder Cups between 1953 and 1969. Long before that final appearance, he had already combined playing with microphone duties.
Alliss soon became known not only for forensically detailed knowledge of his sport but witty moments. His live depiction of Jean Van de Velde’s epic collapse at the 72nd hole of the 1999 Open, for example, is the stuff of legend. Alliss entered golf’s hall of fame in 2012.
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.”
Tim Davie, director general of the BBC, added: “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.”