Peter Oosterhuis, Former Ryder Cup Player and Golf Commentator, Dies at 75

Peter Oosterhuis, the former Ryder Cup player known for his impressive career on the golf course and later as a popular commentator, has passed away at the age of 75. Oosterhuis, who played in six Ryder Cup matches and twice beat the legendary Arnold Palmer in singles matches, had been battling Alzheimer’s since 2014.

During his playing days, Oosterhuis was a force to be reckoned with, topping the European Tour’s Order of Merit four times and finishing as runner-up at The Open on two occasions. He also held a three-shot lead heading into the final round of the 1973 Masters. After retiring from professional golf, Oosterhuis transitioned into a successful career as a commentator with CBS, where he became a beloved figure in the golfing world.

One of Oosterhuis’ former Ryder Cup partners, Bernard Gallacher, paid tribute to his friend and colleague, highlighting Oosterhuis’ intelligence, dedication to the game, and his kind and gentle nature. Gallacher recalled their time playing together and praised Oosterhuis for his course management skills and putting prowess, making him a formidable opponent on the course.

Oosterhuis’ legacy extends beyond his playing days, as he was known for his eloquence and deep knowledge of the game, making him a respected and popular broadcaster in the golfing community. His passing is a loss for the sport of golf, but his contributions and impact will always be remembered by those who were lucky enough to know him.