Tiger Woods Pays Tribute to Legendary Announcer Verne Lundquist at the Masters
ICARO Media Group
In a heartwarming moment at the Augusta National Golf Club, Tiger Woods expressed his gratitude and admiration for legendary CBS announcer Verne Lundquist, who is working his 40th and final Masters this year. As Woods played the 16th hole on Sunday afternoon, Lundquist, seated nearby, watched closely. After tapping in for par, Woods took a moment to shake Lundquist's hand and say a few words, symbolizing the enduring connection between the two.
The bond between Woods and Lundquist traces back almost two decades, when the announcer famously exclaimed, "Oh, wow! In your life have you seen anything like that?!" during Woods' chip-in birdie at the 2005 Masters. This shot ultimately propelled Woods to victory and remains one of Lundquist's most memorable Masters calls, alongside Jack Nicklaus' iconic birdie putt in 1986, which prompted the legendary phrase, "Yes sir!"
During an interview on "Live From the Masters" on Golf Channel, Lundquist revealed that these two moments were the highlights of his broadcasting career at the Masters, considering them as his 1A and 1B. Although he leaned towards Nicklaus' putt due to their closer age, Lundquist acknowledged the impact of his call on Woods' historic chip-in.
When asked about Lundquist during a press conference, Woods couldn't help but admire the announcer's talent. "He has just an amazing ability to bring in the audience and describe a situation. He narrates it in a way that is poetic, yet filled with emotionality," Woods stated with a smile. He continued, expressing his gratitude for Lundquist's memorable call on the 16th hole in 2005. Woods stated that he will cherish the memory and the connection he shares with Lundquist for the rest of his life.
As Lundquist concludes his remarkable 40-year career as a Masters announcer, his impact on the audience and the players remains indelible. Woods' acknowledgment of Lundquist's gift for captivating the audience with his narration serves as a testament to the announcer's enduring legacy and his ability to create unforgettable moments on the golf course.
The Masters concluded on April 14, 2024, but the memories forged between Woods and Lundquist, along with the joy and excitement sparked by their shared moments at the Augusta National Golf Club, will be cherished by golf enthusiasts for generations to come.