1 week Ago By Andrew Gamble
CBS Sports commentator Jim Nantz chose to remain silent for nearly four minutes, allowing viewers to fully absorb the drama of Rory McIlroy's long-awaited Masters victory. McIlroy has been on a quest to secure a Masters title and complete his career Grand Slam since clinching his fourth major at the 2014 Open Championship. The elusive green jacket had always slipped through his fingers until now - at 35, he finally tasted glory at Augusta National.
The win will also see McIlroy take away millions , albeit with a hefty tax bill incoming , and after sinking the final putt, McIlroy fell to his knees on the green, sharing a heartfelt hug with his caddie and lifelong friend Harry Diamond. He then moved on to embrace his wife Erica Stoll and daughter Poppy in a touching moment. Rory McIlroy faces huge tax bill on Masters winnings after making millions Masters 2025 prize money compared to LIV Golf payouts as winner to earn huge sum All the while, Nantz maintained his silence from the booth, allowing McIlroy's first words - a humorous message to his friends - to be clearly heard by all.
Entering the final day as the leader, McIlroy seemed to have a comfortable lead but faltered on Augusta's back-nine. He racked up several bogeys, including a crucial one on the 18th hole when he missed a putt that would have sealed the win, finishing with an 11-under par, In the ensuing playoff against Justin Rose, McIlroy followed his tee shot with an exceptional second stroke that landed on the green and spun back near the hole. After Rose failed to make a birdie, McIlroy tapped in for the win - and immediately broke down in tears as the crowd erupted in applause.
"The long journey is over. McIlroy has his masterpiece," declared Nantz as the Northern Irishman sank to his knees, finally crowned a Masters champion. In a moment of pure broadcasting brilliance, Nantz allowed the cheers and chants from the crowd at the 18th hole to fill the airwaves, as an overwhelmed McIlroy was wrapped in celebratory embraces.
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With this fifth major title, McIlroy joins an elite club of only six golfers who have won all four majors, including legends like Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and his good friend Tiger Woods, who achieved the same in 2000. Nantz's voice has become an iconic part of the Masters experience. Having called the action at Augusta for four decades, Nantz's commentary at the Masters now equals that of former CBS sportscaster Verne Lundquist, who made his 40th and final call at the tournament last year.
Veteran sportscaster Nantz has made it clear he's not eyeing an exit from the commentary booth in the near future, despite hints suggesting that the centennial Masters in 2036 might mark his final broadcast. Nantz elaborated on the topic last month to 'Bunkered', stating, "First off, my health would have to hold up. Secondly, CBS and Augusta National would have to want me to come back.
" He suggested a potential departure date by saying, "But if all the stars aligned, right now, it feels like a pretty good exit point: April 14, 2036. That is my scheduled retirement date. It would be a perfect place to walk out.
" Yet, Nantz appeared to dial back those musings, clarifying that he was not entirely earnest about setting a retirement timeline. He pointedly remarked, "There was a lot said last week about a certain retirement date, I think it was called." Nantz further clarified his position, explaining, "I never made that proclamation or declaration.
I've said it for decades that I would really like to one day be able to be at Augusta for the hundredth playing of the Masters.".
