Peter Alliss: ‘Voice of golf’, tournament legend & Chiddingfold course designer dies aged 89

Jason Callow Golf News

The legendary figure, who won more than 20 tournaments before becoming a successful broadcaster, is hailed one of the “greats”.

Commentator and former Ryder Cup player Peter Alliss – known to fans as “the voice of golf” – has died aged 89.

The golfing legend, who won more than 20 tournaments during his career becoming a successful broadcaster, died peacefully at his home in Surrey on Saturday, it has been announced.

European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley has hailed him as “truly one of golf’s greats”.

He said in a statement: “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.”

A statement released on behalf of the Alliss family to the BBC said: “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.”

Born in 1931 in Berlin, where his father Percy worked as a club pro, Alliss followed in his father’s footsteps and left school at the age of 14 to work for him at Ferndown Golf Club in Dorset, before turning professional himself two years later.