Legendary Golfer Peter Oosterhuis Passes Away at 75

Peter Oosterhuis, a celebrated English golfer and broadcaster, passed away on Sunday at the age of 75. Oosterhuis had been battling Alzheimer's disease since 2014, a diagnosis that led to his retirement from broadcasting after a distinguished career spanning more than 15 years.

Born in London in 1948, Oosterhuis enjoyed a stellar amateur golf career before turning professional in 1969. He quickly made his mark on the European Tour, winning the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year Award in his debut season. Oosterhuis went on to claim seven titles on the tour, including back-to-back victories at the French Open in 1973 and 1974.

Oosterhuis's dominance on the European Tour was unparalleled in the early 1970s. He won the Harry Vardon Trophy, awarded to the tour's leading money winner, for four consecutive seasons from 1971 to 1974. During this period, he also captured the national opens of France and Spain, cementing his status as one of Europe's premier golfers.

In addition to his success on the European Tour, Oosterhuis made his mark on the PGA Tour. He made his debut in 1971 and played full-time from 1975 to 1986. Oosterhuis's crowning achievement on the PGA Tour came in 1981 when he won the Canadian Open at Glen Abbey Golf Club outside Toronto. "What a way to win after watching those big names come in and mine still staying up there on the leaderboard," Oosterhuis said after his victory. "I am fortunate that the course is so tough. It allows no one to make a powerful finish."

Oosterhuis also had a stellar record in the Ryder Cup, representing Great Britain & Ireland in six consecutive editions from 1971 to 1981. He remains tied for the all-time lead in Ryder Cup singles victories for either side, with six wins to his name. Oosterhuis's passion and skill in the biennial event were encapsulated by his memorable quote during the 1973 Ryder Cup: "Get close baby, come on!"

After retiring from professional golf, Oosterhuis transitioned to broadcasting, where his stylish game and charming British accent made him a natural fit. He worked in the capacity of lead analyst for The Golf Channel's early coverage of the European Tour and became a fixture on CBS's broadcasts of the PGA Tour, working the Masters from 1997 through 2014.

Oosterhuis's legacy extends beyond his accomplishments on the golf course and in the broadcast booth. He was a trailblazer for European golf, paving the way for future generations of players to succeed on the global stage. "Fine player who dominated European golf when only winning made you any money," a fellow golfer summarized Oosterhuis's impact on the sport.

Oosterhuis is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann, sons Rob and Rich, stepsons Byron and Matt, and four grandchildren: Peyton, Turner, Sutton, and Lachlan. The golfing world mourns the loss of a true legend, Oosterhuis's lasting contributions to the sport, both as a player and a broadcaster, will continue to inspire and resonate with fans for generations to come.

Key Takeaways

• Peter Oosterhuis, English golfer and broadcaster, dies at 75.
• Oosterhuis won 7 European Tour titles and 1 PGA Tour title.
• He won the Harry Vardon Trophy 4 times and played in 6 Ryder Cups.
• Oosterhuis became a lead analyst for The Golf Channel and CBS.
• He is survived by his wife, sons, stepsons, and 4 grandchildren.