Tiger Woods has led the tributes to Ivor Robson, the legendary announcer of the Open Championship for more than 40 years, who has died at age 83.
Robson’s Scottish accent and “On the tee ...” introductions were a familiar sound to Open fans at the first tee, where he worked from 1975 to his retirement in 2015.
Over the years, Robson introduced more than 18,000 players, including everyone from Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus to Rory McIlroy and Woods.
Woods was among many current and former players who took to social media Tuesday to fondly remember Robson.
“Thank you Ivor for making each one of my Open starts so memorable,” Woods wrote.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of Ivor’s passing,” R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers said Tuesday in a statement announcing Robson’s passing. No cause of death was given.
“His voice was instantly recognisable and synonymous with the championship for players and millions of golf fans worldwide. He was popular and well respected among all golfers who played in The Open and I know that they will share in our sadness at this news.”
Born in 1940 in England, Robson began working the first tee at the Open in 1975 at Carnoustie. He never missed a tee time during his entire 40-plus year career.
Many player reactions were indicative of the legendary status of Robson’s presence at the Open.
Sky Sports presenter Nick Dougherty also shared his reaction on social media.
“The rollercoaster of professional golfer’s career is found in each and every round in this volatile sport,” Dougherty wrote. “For many of us, across such a long time, the only guarantee each day was the calmness of Ivor’s voice being the last one to wish you luck on each journey ... a great man.”
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