Ivor Robson dead at 83: Golf legend and voice of The Open dies as tributes flood in

GOLF legend Ivor Robson has died aged 83.

The iconic announcer became synonymous with The Open over 41 years as the event’s official starter.

Bradley Ormesher – The TimesIvor Robson has sadly died aged 83[/caption]

Getty – ContributorRobson poses with the Claret Jug[/caption]

Robson announced his final Open in 2015 before retiring for good later that year.

At the time, he said: “It has been a wonderful career. It’s been a great honour.

“The way I have been treated by players, officials, sponsors… thank you all very much.”

Upon the news of Robson’s passing, CEO of the R&A golf club Martin Slumbers said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of Ivor’s passing.

“As official starter at The Open for over 40 years, his voice was instantly recognisable and synonymous with the Championship for players and millions of golf fans worldwide.

“He was popular and well respected among all golfers who played in The Open and I know that they will share in our sadness at this news.

“On behalf of all of us at The R&A, I would like to convey our heartfelt condolences to his wife of 61 years, Lesley, and the Robson family.”

Fans have flocked to social media to pay tribute to Robson.

One wrote: “The voice, RIP Ivor Robson. Let’s see the stand at the first tee renamed, a fitting tribute.”

While a second commented: “Golf has lost a giant of the sport. RIP Ivor Robson. Thanks for all you did and for the man you were, a gentleman, a legend within the game.”

A third tweeted: “Tremendously sad news. The voice of The Open, and a lovely man to boot. RIP Ivor Robson.”

Another added: “The voice of several generations. They will still be talking about Ivor Robson at the 250th Open. A genuine great of the game, and a gentleman to boot.”