Verne Lundquist is being toasted this week at Augusta National as he calls his final Masters, with everyone agreeing the CBS broadcaster will forever be remembered for some of his legendary calls at the tournament.
Lundquist, 83, announced in 2022 that the 2024 Masters would “likely” be his last one. He confirmed in February that this week will mark his final broadcast at Augusta.
As Lundquist leaves the mic behind, he’ll also leave behind some of the greatest calls in golf history.
“I still get chills when hearing the famous calls by an incredible Verne Lundquist of two of the most iconic Sunday moments in Masters history,” Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley said before the tournament (via Golf Monthly).
“Jack Nicklaus in 1986, with putter raised following a crucial putt into the hole on No. 17 on his way to his sixth Masters title; and in 2005 Tiger Woods’ unbelievable pitch shot on No. 16, which catapulted him to his fourth Green Jacket.
“Who could forget the drama as Tiger’s ball stopped momentarily and then fell into the hole? You’re right, Verne, we have not seen anything like that.”
This is the 40th time Lundquist has called the Masters. He recently told Tyler Feldman of KVUE TV in Austin, “It’s time. I’m not a spring chicken anymore.”
But Lundquist’s legendary calls remain as fresh as the the day he made them.
“He’s going to be a part of Augusta forever,” longtime CBS lead announcer Jim Nantz said recently on a media call. “Those calls that he’s made, they’re going to be played back 50, 100, 200 years from now. He’s going to have a home there. He’s permanent, he’s got permanent residence.”
ESPN produced a video showing Lundquist’s many highlights at Augusta.
https://twitter.com/awfulannouncing/status/1778494071100919929
And players are also sharing their favorite Lundquist memories.
https://twitter.com/awfulannouncing/status/1778494885236257028
Expect more tributes to Lundquist throughout the weekend.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.