Ivor Robson ‘Voice of the Open’ has passed away at 83, leaving the golf world mournful. He provided the soundtrack to The Open for a large part of his professional career and became one of the most recognizable voices in the sport.
Ivor was a British commentator with a long career of over four decades. He served as the official starter at The Open during this period. He was also seen fulfilling his duties at the Ryder Cup and other important European events. He was at the height of his powers in 1993 when Greg Norman, now LIV Golf boss, won the British Open.
We pay tribute to Ivor Robson, the official starter at The Open for over 40 years, who has sadly passed away at the age of 83.
Our thoughts are with his family and many friends in the world of golf.
https://t.co/cTjleocdPG pic.twitter.com/kSYwYlsYVp— The R&A (@RandA) October 17, 2023
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He began his career as the first-tee announcer at Carnoustie in 1975 and retired in 2015. But even after retirement, he continued to garner admiration and love from people. His famous introductions starting with the words “On the tee…” live on in fans’ memory.
His exquisite Scottish accent enthralled one and all. In all, Robson announced 18,995 players at The Open. The chief executive of R&A has shared his condolences on the sad occasion. “We are deeply saddened to hear of Ivor’s passing. As official starter at The Open for over 40 years, his voice was instantly recognizable and synonymous with the Championship for players and millions of golf fans worldwide.”
Despite all the adulation he received, Robson, as per reports, lived in his own world and didn’t open up easily to strangers. Many famous golfers paid tribute to Robson.
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The epitome of professionalism
The Irish professional golfer Paul McGinley paid his respects to Ivor Robson and declared his legacy to be an iconic one.
So sad to hear of Ivor Robsons passing – the most famous & popular first tee starter golf has ever had – his legacy will be that iconic & quintessential British voice of his #RIP https://t.co/nH6jQmso18
— Paul McGinley (@mcginleygolf) October 17, 2023
The Scottish professional golfer Andrew Coltart beautifully penned down his generous words for Ivor Robson.
Very sad to hear of the passing of the wonderful Ivor Robson, honourary starter on the DPWT for over 40years. The epitome of professionalism who always brought a sense of calm at an unnerving time. Lovely man, friend of everyone on the tour. You will be missed Ivor x RIP ❤️
— Andrew Coltart (@AndrewColtart) October 17, 2023
The Irish professional golfer Paul Dunne mentioned that it was a dream to hear his name from Robson. Losing a man like him has left him shattered.
I grew up dreaming of it and it became my proudest moment was hearing my name announced by Ivor. A sad day for golf losing a legend. RIP https://t.co/zPlSsxSHBr
— Paul Dunne (@dunners11) October 17, 2023
The official page of The Open paid tribute to the man, reliving his memories in the most touching manner. It’s a must-watch.
Ivor Robson. 1940 – 2023.
A voice synonymous with The Open. pic.twitter.com/NTEvkrggQl
— The Open (@TheOpen) October 17, 2023
The Danish golfer Thomas Bjorn wrote how immensely Robson’s absence will be missed by the golf family.
A man with one of the most distinctive voices in golf.
For 41 years he was the official starter at @TheOpen – a real legend in our world who will be deeply missed by the whole @DPWorldTour and @ROLEX family.
Rest in peace, Ivor 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/U3oCTJovQD
— Thomas Bjørn (@thomasbjorngolf) October 17, 2023
Not just golfers, fans didn’t hide their sadness at the news. One fan shared his condolences.
Very sad news lovely man my condolences go out to his family & friends 💙🙏
— european tour rat (@wayneefc1) October 17, 2023
Another fan remembered Robson’s style of delivery by using some of his words.
St Peter:
'I'll get you away now.
This is game number 83.
At the gates, from Scotland…Ivor Robson!'Another one of the great voices of golf has reached the clubhouse.
Sorely missed. 🥲
— Johnny Neeson (@JTNeesonJnr) October 17, 2023
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A fan stated that he met Ivor Robson in person multiple times having been a golf-course marshall himself.
Nice chap. Met him a few times whilst marshalling. RIP
— Mark Smith (@Smudge1979) October 17, 2023
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From these reactions, one can make out Ivor Robson was a popular figure in golf. May his soul rest in peace. Do let us know if you remember something interesting from his introductions. The comment section is all yours.
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