Jim Nantz, the CBS Sports commentator, remained silent for nearly four minutes, allowing viewers to fully absorb Rory McIlroy’s thrilling Masters victory. McIlroy has been pursuing a Masters title to complete his career Grand Slam since he won his fourth major at the 2014 Open Championship. The coveted green jacket has always been just out of reach – until now.
At 35, McIlroy finally achieved legendary status at Augusta National. After sinking to his knees on the green, he shared a hug with his caddie and lifelong friend Harry Diamond. He then greeted his wife Erica Stoll and daughter Poppy in a touching moment.
All of this unfolded against a backdrop of silence from Nantz in the booth, allowing McIlroy’s first words – a humorous message to his friends – to be clearly heard.
Entering Sunday as the leader, McIlroy had a comfortable lead but faltered on the back-nine at Augusta. He suffered several bogeys, including one on the 18th when he missed a putt that would have secured the win, finishing with an 11-under par.
In the playoff against Justin Rose, McIlroy followed his tee shot with an exceptional second effort that landed on the green and spun back near the hole. After Rose missed a birdie attempt, McIlroy tapped in – and immediately broke down in tears as the crowd erupted in applause.
“The long journey is over. McIlroy has his masterpiece,” declared Nantz as Rory McIlroy hit his knees, overcome with emotion after winning the Masters. The seasoned broadcaster allowed the moment to breathe, holding back commentary while the Augusta National crowd provided a heartfelt serenade to McIlroy.
Drawing the event to a close, Nantz summed up the day: “One of the strangest rounds I’ve ever seen.”
His experienced silence alongside the evocative imagery underscored his broadcasting prowess, emphasizing the magnitude of the event through pure atmosphere.
“His reaction is 11 years in the making,” noted Nantz, as McIlroy reveled in a victory that positioned him among legends—the sixth player to claim all four major golf titles. He joins the ranks of Sarazen, Hogan, Player, Nicklaus, and Woods, marking a monumental point in his career.
Celebrations for Rory echoed around the world, with congratulatory messages like “A long time coming. Congratulations, Rory. #themasters” flood social media and fans rejoicing in the golfer’s historic triumph.
Nantz, a name synonymous with the Masters’ commentary, marked his 40th anniversary at Augusta, equaling the record of fellow CBS legend Verne Lundquist and etching yet another chapter in his storied Masters narrative.
Nantz has hinted he isn’t leaving his role any time soon, despite recent chatter suggesting his final commentary might be at the centennial Masters in 2036. Speaking to ‘Bunkered’ last month, Nantz mused on what it would take for him to sign off: “First off, my health would have to hold up. Secondly, CBS and Augusta National would have to want me to come back.
“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.”
In a turn-around, however, the iconic commentator clarified that his prior statements were not as definitive as interpreted. Nantz commented: “There was a lot said last week about a certain retirement date, I think it was called.
“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.”
This article originally appeared on Irish Star
