The Final Round: Ian Baker-Finch Calls It a Career at CBS Sports
The End of an Era: Ian Baker-Finch Retires from Golf Broadcasting
The world of golf broadcasting is saying goodbye to a familiar voice. After a remarkable 19 years at CBS Sports, the esteemed Australian golfer and sports commentator, Ian Baker-Finch, is stepping away from his role as a golf analyst. This retirement marks the end of an era for golf fans, who have long relied on Baker-Finch’s insightful commentary and unique perspective on the game.
From Championship Greens to the Broadcast Booth
Before gracing the airwaves, Ian Baker-Finch built a distinguished career on the course. He’s best remembered for his stunning victory at The Open Championship in 1991, a triumph that cemented his place among golf’s elite. Beyond that iconic win, his professional journey included an impressive 17 worldwide victories, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. His skills earned him recognition and success across multiple tours and continents, making him a global name in golf.
A Broadcasting Career Spanning Decades and Networks
Baker-Finch’s transition from the fairways to the broadcasting booth proved seamless and successful. His career in sports commentary spanned an impressive three decades, allowing him to share his deep knowledge and passion for golf with audiences worldwide. He lent his expertise to a variety of networks, including ABC, ESPN, TNT, and, of course, CBS Sports. His ability to articulate the nuances of the game, combined with his engaging personality, made him a favorite among viewers.
A Farewell After the Wyndham Championship
Baker-Finch’s retirement follows the Wyndham Championship, the concluding event of the PGA Tour regular season. While his voice will be missed on the CBS Sports broadcasts, his legacy in golf is secure. His analysis has consistently provided unique insight into the game, and his contributions will be remembered by players, commentators, and fans alike.
Beyond the Microphone: Leadership and Mentorship
Baker-Finch’s contributions extend beyond the realm of broadcasting. He has also served as a captain for the Australian Olympic golf teams and held various assistant captain roles in the prestigious Presidents Cup. This leadership demonstrates his commitment to nurturing the next generation of golfing talent and his dedication to the sport’s growth.
A Lasting Impact
Ian Baker-Finch’s retirement is a significant moment for golf. He leaves behind a legacy of exceptional playing, insightful commentary, and dedicated service to the game. While his presence on the screen will be missed, his impact on the sport will undoubtedly endure. The golfing world wishes him all the best in his future endeavors.
For further reading:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ian_Baker-Finch
- https://golfweek.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/2025/07/22/ian-baker-finch-retiring-cbs-sports/85322337007/
- https://apnews.com/article/ian-baker-finch-cbs-golf-retiring-46933b1c46e6c00edd3093cd597762f1