Sir Nick Faldo enjoyed a hugely successful playing career.
And to his credit, he was equally as successful during his time in the commentary booth.
Faldo won six major championships during his time in the game – three Masters and three Opens.
The 67-year-old Englishman thrived when playing under the most intense pressure, and that was mostly because of his single mindedness – he was only interested in winning.
When he transitioned from playing competitively to commentating, he made a name for himself with his controversial takes.
Very much in keeping with his reputation of straight shooting, Faldo recently suggested that LIV players have gone soft, due to the fact that most of them have lost their hunger to improve.
It’s a shame that the six-time major champion isn’t on commentary duty anymore – he was always incredibly insightful to listen to.
Sir Nick Faldo shares what he was forbidden from saying during 18 years of commentating
The three-time Masters winner was hugely popular during his commentary days with both US and UK audiences.
The truth of the matter is that the same cannot be said for him during his playing days!
Faldo sat down with The Times to discuss Rory McIlroy‘s incredible win at The Masters last week.
The Englishman highlighted how McIlroy’s victory, and the visceral emotion he showed on the final green, was hugely important for the sport:
“I did 18 years of TV and we were told never to mention prize money. Suddenly, everything was about money. It’s been bad PR and the viewers have lost. It’s a glorious way back because that was pure. It was playing for history, and it did the game a world of good.”
It’s a great point from Faldo – McIlroy’s win came at just the right time for the sport.
Just take a look at how he celebrated winning at Augusta compared to his Fedex Cup victory, which banked him four times as much money by the way!
The difference is like night and day.
Rory McIlroy career PGA Tour earnings
McIlroy has now jumped up to second on the career money list after his Masters win, with just over $104 million to his name.
He trails Tiger Woods by $16 million, and it would be no surprise to see him eclipse the 15-time major champion within the next 12 months.
Faldo is spot on about the money in today’s game.
However, the very best golfers in the world only want to create a legacy by winning as many of the biggest tournaments as they can.
And Rory McIlroy certainly fits into that category.
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