The golf industry has seen many greats, but few have been as distinctive as Robert Donald (Bob) Rosburg, whose journey in golf is an emblem of hard work, grit, and groundbreaking success. Rosburg’s name may not echo as loudly as some in the current era of the sport, but his impact on golf, both as a player and a commentator, should never be underestimated.
Born on October 21, 1926, in San Francisco, California, Rosburg gained an early introduction to golf, enhancing his passion and skill level for the game. After his service in the Navy during World War II, he chose to pursue golf professionally, on the prodding of his golf mates who witnessed his innate knack for the sport.
Bob started to make significant strides in the late 1950s. The highlight of his career came in 1959 when he won the PGA Championship defying the odds; he was seven strokes behind, but impressively overcame this difference to clinch victory. This spectacular win made him become the first of only four players in PGA Championship history to have won after trailing by at least seven shots entering the final round.
Rosburg had an impressive record of six PGA Tour wins. Besides the aforementioned PGA Championship, Bob also had triumphs at the Vardon Trophy tournaments and the Bob Jones Award competitions, reflecting his consistent performances. His skill set extended beyond just these victories; he finished in the top 25 in more than a third of his tour starts, excerpts of his consistency and his enduring skill.
Also worth mentioning is Rosburg’s pioneering approach towards golfing equipment. He was fearless in his choice of clubs and his use of a 5-wood as a utility club became a trendsetter. Nowadays, portable fairway woods are a standard part of any golfer’s bag, demonstrating how Rosburg impacted the game beyond his individual performances.
But perhaps, most interesting is Rosburg’s transition to being a sports commentator after retiring as a player. He was hired by ABC Sports in 1974 and quickly became a mainstay in their golf coverage, serving there until 1996. His direct, somewhat unabashed style of commentary was a departure from the norm, and he became well-known for his signature “Yes, sir” calls, which emphasised his confidence in his reads.
Rosburg’s commentary was primarily focused around “tours” where he would traverse the course, providing in-depth analysis and commentary on the challenges the course posed to the players. His expert analysis, based on his extensive personal experience, gave a unique perspective, that reminded his audience of his prowess not just behind the set but on the golfing greens as well.
In addition, he also won an Emmy Award in 1987 for his work, a testament to his skills as a broadcaster and an enduring figure in golf, and numerous other tournaments like the Phoenix Open, Hot Springs 4-Ball and All American Open during his commentating years.
Rosburg’s dedication to the sport is of no question. Despite a debilitating car accident in 1999, which ended his broadcasting career, he stayed close to the game by contributing his years of knowledge and experience to aspiring golfers.
Off the course, Rosburg was a loving family man, married to his wife Gloria for five decades, and a doting father to their two children. He passed away in May 2009 at the age of 82, leaving behind a golf legacy that any player or fan of the sport can appreciate.
In conclusion, Rosburg’s journey in golf is a story of triumph over adversity, showcasing his skill, determination, and unwavering love for the sport. He stepped into golf’s limelight as a champion golfer, and he adeptly used the skills he cultivated on the course to deliver insightful and engaging commentary. He was a trendsetter, an innovator, and steered the golfing narrative in his unique way that continues to resonate today. And above all, he was an instrumental figure who left an indelible mark on the world of golf.