Paul Azinger, a former 12-time PGA Tour champion and winner of the 1993 PGA Championship, has agreed to return to the broadcast booth in 2025. He will replace Lanny Wadkins as the lead analyst on Golf Channel’s coverage of PGA Tour Champions for 10-12 tournaments next season as part of a one-year deal. Azinger expressed his excitement for the part-time opportunity to provide candid analysis and enjoy the experience. Peter Jacobsen and John Cook will fill in for Azinger when he is off, with Cook also serving as an on-site walking reporter.
Azinger previously served as the lead golf analyst for NBC Sports’ coverage of the PGA Tour, until the network decided not to renew his contract last December. While NBC has yet to hire a replacement, Azinger will now be working with PGA Tour Entertainment, which has the final say on talent for PGA Tour Champions coverage. Despite the messy parting with NBC, all parties involved have reconciled and are looking forward to working together.
Azinger has expressed interest in calling the 50-and-over tour, stating that he would prefer to cover the Senior Tour over the PGA Tour. PGA Tour Champions President Miller Brady and Executive Producer Greg Hopfe met with Azinger to gauge his interest in joining the Champions Tour, eventually leading to his decision to take on the role. Azinger’s vast experience in golf, both as a player and analyst, makes him a valuable addition to Golf Channel’s coverage.
Wadkins, who has been the lead analyst for Golf Channel’s coverage of the Champions Tour for the last 13 years, announced his retirement and will be doing his final broadcast at the Mitsubishi Electric Championship in January 2025. The tour plans to honor Wadkins’ contributions in a special ceremony before the tournament. Geoff Shackelford praised Wadkins as one of the most underrated analysts in golf television history.
Brady is excited to have Azinger join the PGA Tour Champions telecasts on Golf Channel, emphasizing his experience and expertise in the game of golf. Azinger’s passion for the sport and desire to stay involved make him a great fit for the role. Additionally, the opportunity to potentially call Tiger Woods’ events in the future adds to Azinger’s enthusiasm for the job.
Overall, Azinger’s return to the broadcast booth marks a new chapter in his broadcasting career, providing golf fans with his unique perspective and insights on the game. With his wealth of experience and love for the sport, Azinger is poised to make a significant impact on the PGA Tour Champions coverage and continue to engage viewers with his engaging commentary.
