Bob Bubka dead age 83: Legendary reporter and ‘Voice of Golf' who covered Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods passes away
American Bubka started working in radio in 1964 covering high school football.
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He then began covering golf in the 1980s and worked for NBC Sports and the PGA Tour in America - including his 'Outside the Ropes' show.
Then in 2000, Bubka landed a job with talkSPORT, bringing his iconic New York tones to the UK sport radio station.
And his standing in golf saw him respected and revered by all.
That included two of the greatest golfers of all time - Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.
Nicklaus was made an honourary citizen of St Andrews in 2022 and personally invited his dear friend Bubka to be there.
And even the notoriously private Woods went out of his way to greet Bubka at The Open that year, seeking him out after a press conference after the iconic broadcaster travelled to the event despite poor health.
Rubert Bell of talkSPORT paid an emotional tribute to his great friend and colleague.
Bell said: 'Radio is about voice. There is no doubt when you heard Bob Bubka speak, it just grabbed you.
'Unmistakable, iconic, coupled with a wonderful, unique style. For over 25 years, his distinctive American tones enthralled and entertained talkSPORT listeners.
'His love for the game of golf shone through, coupled with a cheeky, almost rebellious element which made him not only a delight to listen to - but in my case - to work with.
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'Bob was unashamedly biased when it came to Tiger Woods - in awe of his achievements - particularly as he had been brought up in the Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer era. It was a testament to Bob that Tiger always seemed to reach out and say hello.
'In later years, Bob's health made it difficult to travel and his last Open in situ was at St Andrews in 2022.
'He loved being there - and the relish in which he drove his motorised wheelchair around the city was fantastic.
'But what he also loved was the interaction with talkSPORT listeners - and I know in the end, being part of the talkSPORT family was so important to him as he struggled with ill health.
'Even when physically frail, that voice never faltered. Covering the majors will never be the same without that delicious voice drawing us into the magnificent sport of golf.'
Others in the golfing world took to social media to post their messages and memories.
Mike Parry said: "I'm really saddened to hear of the death of my great pal and legendary golf commentator Bob Bubka.
"He was THE best with an incomparably silky voice and unparalleled knowledge of the game. I worked six Opens with him. Joyous professional days... RIP Big Man."
Jonathan Norman added: "After marvelling at his voice and broadcasting style for a decade, it was one of my career highs to work with Bob at the 2014 Ryder Cup.
"He will be missed greatly. Thoughts with Janice and all Bob's family and friends. RIP."
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