There has been a lot of reaction from the world of golf after Australian legend Ian Baker-Finch broke down in tears and said goodbye to his job as a golf commentator. Having started his career as a commentator in 1991, it seems that even Baker-Finch did not expect to stay in that position for so long.
Although previously a golfer, the Australian decided to take a different path, and the public's reaction to his retirement speaks volumes for how deep a mark he left.
Ian Baker-Finch publicly said goodbye, with tears in his eyes, while noting that he was most sorry for the fans.
Such moments can often be emotional, but it is clear that it is time for a new chapter in the life of an experienced Australian.
"I really will miss calling those moments to the fans at home," he said, as quoted by Nine.
"Because the fans are what we're here for.
We're here for you, we're here to entertain you.
It's been great a run I've had, though, and it is overwhelming."
However, his CBS colleagues reacted just as emotionally, also with tears in their eyes.
Trevor Immelman expressed his gratitude to the Australian, saying that he was an important link in his career and on his path to stardom.
Afterwards, Immelman stressed that the public's reactions best describe how important a figure Ian was and what he meant to the world of golf.
"Finchy, you have been such an incredible mentor to so many, including myself, and I'm so thankful for that," Trevor Immelman said.
"The outpouring of love and respect that you've received over the last two weeks, it's just such a testament to the great man that you are."
Reactions
Major figures from the world of golf reacted via social media, with Tiger Woods being one of those.
The 49-year-old wished the Australian good luck, aware of how important Baker-Finch was to the world of golf.
In addition to Woods, Jay Monahan and other faces of the golf scene wished Ian all the best in the new chapter of his life.
