Legendary CBS Sports golf analyst and former Ryder Cup champion Pete Oosterhuis has passed away at the age of 75.
The former British golfer passed away just one day shy of his 76th birthday after a battle with Alzheimer’s.
“Peter was an integral part of our golf coverage and an incredible teammate for nearly two decades,” CBS Sports said in a statement. “… Peter brought a unique style and distinct perspective to our broadcasts which made him one of the most respected analysts in the sport. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife Ruth Ann and his entire family.”
Oosterhuis made an indelible mark as a player, particularly in Ryder Cup showdowns, boasting a formidable record of 6-2-1 in singles matches, including memorable victories over golf legends Arnold Palmer and Johnny Miller.
His six wins still stand as a benchmark, tying him for the all-time lead in singles matches.
Beyond the Ryder Cup, he showcased his talent with two runner-up finishes at the Open Championship and two European Tour money titles.
Rising swiftly to the pinnacle of European golf, he claimed the No. 1 spot for four consecutive years, eventually transitioning to the PGA Tour.
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His global dominance was evident through 20 tournament victories worldwide, and his unwavering commitment to representing Great Britain in the Ryder Cup was unparalleled.
Over his Ryder Cup tenure, he amassed a commendable record of 14-11-3, during an era overshadowed by U.S. supremacy.
Despite some near-misses at major tournaments, including a narrow loss to Tom Watson at the 1982 Open Championship, Oosterhuis consistently contended at golf’s highest level.
His breakthrough PGA Tour triumph came at the 1981 Canadian Open, where he edged out esteemed competitors such as Bruce Lietzke, Andy North, and Jack Nicklaus by a single stroke.
Transitioning from the fairways to the broadcast booth, Oosterhuis became a familiar voice on CBS, providing insightful commentary during Masters telecasts from 1997 to 2014.
He also lent his expertise to Sky Sports and Golf Channel.
Additionally, he assumed roles as golf director at prestigious clubs like Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles and Forsgate Country Club in New Jersey.
In a poignant turn, Oosterhuis announced his retirement from broadcasting in 2014 following an early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
Despite this, his contributions to golf remain etched in history.
Hailing from London, Oosterhuis initially made waves on the DP World Tour, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 1969 and subsequently dominating the tour, clinching the top player award for four consecutive seasons (1971-74).
He further solidified his legacy by transitioning to the PGA Tour in 1975, becoming one of the pioneering international players to grace the U.S.-based circuit.
His standout year on the PGA Tour came in 1981, where he finished 28th on the money list with earnings totaling $115,862.
