Jim Nantz retirement comment says it all after being urged to quit following Rory McIlroy win

Jim Nantz’ recent walk back on setting a date for his retirement shows the legendary sportscaster is remaining defiant in the face of criticism following Rory McIlroy‘s Masters triumph.

The iconic CBS commentator was in the booth for his 40th tournament edition of the tournament this month and has held the role of being the main voice of the Masters for the broadcaster since 1989.

Nantz, 65, was on hand to call McIlroy’s maiden triumph at Augusta, which not only broke his 11-year major drought but also made him only the sixth player ever to capture the elusive career grand slam.

Prior to the tournament, the American had suggested that his retirement from commentating had a date set, with 2036 being the last year of his career. Speaking to Bunkered, he said: “A lot of things have to happen for that to occur.

“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.”

However, he seemed to U-turn on his comments soon after and instead insisted that he merely has hopes of being in the booth for the 100th edition of the Masters. “There was a lot said last week about a certain retirement date, I think it was called,” he said.

“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.”

Nantz’s retirement backtracking coupled with his calling of McIlroy’s win saw him come in for criticism on social media, with some golf fans claiming his time as the voice of the major has come to an end.

One user wrote: “#JimNantz #Masters2025 Can Nantz retire now. He had a good run. Don’t know if I can handle bumbling til 2036.”

While another commented: “Jim Nantz said he plans to retire after the 2036 Masters. I’ll have to remember to start watching again in 2037.

“Every… single… second does not have to be filled with over-dramatic babbling.” Some accused Nantz of showing preferential treatment towards McIlroy throughout the tournament.

A third added: “Jim Nantz needs to retire. He is terrible and was basically rooting for Rory all week. Not sure why everyone loves him, I find him insufferable.”

• Source: NEWHD MEDIA