Tiger Woods is mourning the loss of one of golf's most recognizable voices after longtime NBC Sports broadcaster Dan Hicks passed away at 64.
The PGA Tour announced Thursday that Hicks died following an acute illness. The Arizona native spent more than three decades with NBC Sports, becoming the network's lead golf play-by-play announcer in 2000 after joining the company in 1992.
Woods shared a heartfelt tribute to Hicks, remembering the broadcaster as a great friend both on and off the golf course.
“Dan Hicks was beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. His kindness, warmth, and presence will be deeply missed,” Woods said. “Like so many in the golf world, Dan was a great friend to me both on and off the course. I had the utmost respect for him and the incredible job he did for our sport for decades.”
Woods also sent his condolences to Hicks' wife, Hannah Storm, and their three daughters, hoping they find comfort in knowing how much he meant to those around him.
Hicks spent much of his broadcasting career covering Woods' biggest moments, including his memorable victory at the 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines (San Diego). His call of Woods' clutch putt to force a playoff against Rocco Mediate remains one of the most recognizable moments in golf broadcasting.
Article Continues BelowThe two shared a connection that went beyond the microphone, and Woods' statement reflects the impact Hicks had on players throughout the sport.
Hicks' passing leaves a significant void in golf broadcasting, where his voice helped define some of the game's most memorable moments for an entire generation of fans.