“We’re Always Here for You”: Ian Baker-Finch Bids Emotional Farewell to CBS Golf, Leaving Fans and Colleagues in Tears
In a poignant and heartfelt moment that resonated across the golf world, legendary commentator and former Open champion Ian Baker-Finch delivered an emotional farewell to CBS Golf, bringing his decades-long broadcasting journey to a close.
Baker-Finch, who has been a staple voice in golf coverage for over 25 years, officially signed off during the network’s final broadcast of The Open 2025. As the cameras lingered on him for one last time, his voice cracked with emotion:
“I just want to say thank you — to my colleagues, the players, the viewers, and the game I love. This has been the honor of my life.”
The Australian golf legend, best known for his 1991 Open Championship win and warm, insightful analysis, has been a beloved figure both on and off the course. Over the years, he earned the respect of golf fans for his knowledge, passion, and humility.
But it was his final words — “We’re always here for you” — that hit hardest. Said not only as a message to his fellow broadcasters but to the entire golfing community, the phrase sparked an outpouring of emotion on social media.
“You could feel the love and respect through the screen,” one fan posted. “The voice of calm and class in golf is stepping away, and I’m not ready for it,” another wrote.
Fellow broadcasters Jim Nantz and Trevor Immelman also struggled to hold back tears as they shared stories of camaraderie and behind-the-scenes moments. Nantz called him “the ultimate gentleman in golf,” while Immelman added, “It won’t be the same without Finchy.”
Though Baker-Finch has not yet confirmed his next steps, many believe he’ll remain close to the sport in some capacity — perhaps mentoring young broadcasters or supporting golf initiatives in his home country of Australia.
As the credits rolled and the final notes of the CBS Golf theme faded out, one thing became clear: Ian Baker-Finch may be stepping away from the microphone, but his voice and presence will forever echo through the game.
