The competition at the Wyndham Championship in 2025 was not only the concluding occasion of the PGA Tour’s regular schedule, but it also represented the end of a period for a well-liked figure in broadcasting.
Earlier in the year, Ian Baker-Finch revealed his intentions to retire at the season’s close, making Sunday’s final round at Sedgefield Country Club his last broadcast with CBS. Following an accomplished playing career, Baker-Finch transitioned to broadcasting, spending 11 years on Australian TV and contributing to ESPN and ABC from 1998 to 2006. He then joined CBS in 2007, where he became a familiar presence as a hole announcer for 19 years.
For his farewell broadcast, prominent figures in the sport and leading Australian players expressed their sincere congratulations to Baker-Finch for his successful post-playing career as he prepared for retirement. Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Jason Day, and Adam Scott were among those who shared their appreciation for Baker-Finch’s contributions to the sport during his time as a broadcaster.
“Congrats Finchy for 30 remarkable years behind the microphone,” Woods stated. “You provided insight into aspects that the audience could grasp and relate to. From all of us, thank you for the memories.”
“Ian has been a great asset to the game of golf,” Nicklaus commented. “He was a skilled player with an engaging personality, and he has been a valuable asset to the CBS golf broadcasts. We extend our best wishes and congratulations to him.”
“You have consistently been a positive influence in our sport,” Day remarked. “A champion both on and off the golf course. I have always admired you and recognized your principles of excellence and, more importantly, integrity. I have always considered you a friend and a remarkable human being. Congratulations on a fantastic career. Thank you for your friendship, Finchy.”
“Congratulations IBF on a wonderful broadcasting career,” Scott conveyed. “Your enthusiasm for the sport was evident every weekend on television. Having you commentate on my victory on the 10th green at Augusta holds a special memory for me. Wishing you all the best for the future, Scotty.”
Baker-Finch achieved two victories on the PGA Tour, including the 1991 Open Championship. However, contemporary golf enthusiasts primarily recognize him for his contributions to television. He has long been appreciated as a cherished voice in golf, recognized for the vitality he infused into broadcasts and his deep passion for the sport.
