Well said. It was bad when Paul left us, especially since Roll is such a tool. But now without Phil, I don't think I can watch. I have not heard any cycling commentary that is worth listening to outside of him.
Phil has been the voice of cycling for so many of us for so long!! I've watched every TDF (and other events) for the past 40+ years and Phil has been the voice of cycling for me that whole time. It will be so very sad to see him leave but it is time. I've been quoted as saying some things about all the mistakes he's been making over the last 3 seasons and I meant no harm by it. I just didn't want to see him tarnish his legacy by staying in the sport too long. This is a very sad day for me and many others but it was the right call. WE LOVE YOU PHIL AND YOU ARE GOING TO BE MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN!!! 🤘🏻🇬🇧
@@SvalbardSleeperDistrict I like Phil, but his bias and refusal to report much less acknowledge the credible doping reports by the French media even before the Armstrong confessions is a real disappointment and stain on this man’s wonderful career. Phil made a mistake. He’s admitted as such. Yes, some would say it was too little too late.
I've been listening to Phil's commentating since the 1987 Tour de France. As a 13-year-old boy seeing professional cycling for the first time on CBS Sports, his poetic commentary on how the race was unfolding was utterly captivating for me, turning me into a fan for life. Since then, he (and before his passing, Paul Sherwin) became synonymous with cycling for me and thousands of others. It's unthinkable to imagine professional cycling without him. Mr. Liggett, I want to extend to you my sincerest thanks for introducing me and so many others to this beautiful sport. When we remember all of the special moments of cycling during that time, it's your voice commentating on those moments that also rings in our heads and helps to make those memories so vivid. Chapeau, sir!
Absolutely mate!! Phil has been the voice of cycling for so many of us for so long!! I've watched every TDF (and other events) for the past 40+ years and Phil has been the voice of cycling for me that whole time. It will be so very sad to see him leave but it is time. I've been quoted as saying some things about all the mistakes he's been making over the last 3 seasons and I meant no harm by it. I just didn't want to see him tarnish his legacy by staying in the sport too long. This is a very sad day for me and many others but it was the right call. WE LOVE YOU PHIL AND YOU ARE GOING TO BE MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN!!! 🤘🏻🇬🇧
@@dutchrye you're right back then it was CBS wild world of sports. I didn't even think of that until now. NBC wasn't the juggernaut it is now. I'm not sure if you're in the States (it sounds like it since you mentioned CBS) but now NBC and their peacock streaming service has really brought cycling to us in a new way and I'm so happy I got to watch it all these years with Phil and Paul. When Paul passed I shed a tear. I really did. This is a bit different, Phil is bowing out and we knew it would be coming soon. I'm glad he got to retire as the legend he is and we didn't lose him like we lost Paul. Myself being an Englishman Phil has always been the main character of the sport for me 🤘🏻🇬🇧
He wasn't always perfect, certainly not in his later years, but he was THE voice of cycling to me for the last 2 decades I have been watching racing. I missed Paul when he was gone, and I will miss Phil as well. God bless you both.
Walking around the media pen on the day Bradley Wiggins would win the TT, and consequently the TDF, I saw Phil going in. I said to my son look there’s Phil Liggett! He turned around walked out, shook our hands and asked if we were ready to see history made today? Chapeau Phil.
As I was leaving stage 19 this year I walked with my friends through the area with all of the media trucks and had the absolute pleasure of running into Mr. Liggett as he was leaving. I asked if I could shake his hand, and he said yes and asked me how I enjoyed the stage. I told him that it was amazing, and that this was my first time both in Europe and second time watching the Tour in person, after seeing stage 4 two weeks earlier. He said "well you sure know how to pick them!", I thanked him for everything, and then as a goodbye he told me to never lose my passion for cycling. I really appreciated that moment and Phil's willingness to talk to and connect with a fan after a long day in the commentary box. Thank you for everything you've done for the sport, Phil, and I hope you enjoy your well-earned retirement!
Very cool mate!! He's been the voice of cycling for me for over 40 years and he will definitely be missed. This sport will never be the same without him!! 🤘🏻🇬🇧
I lost my wife a month before we lost Paul. I had three teenage sons and my role was clear. A month later I was inexplicably destroyed with my sorrow for Phil and Paul’s family at their loss. I have choked up every time Phil has taken the microphone. His strength to carry on has given me strength. Thank you sir. You are more than the voice of cycling.
I agree 100% mate. Hearing about Paul made me cry. The two of those men have been the voice of cycling for me for over 40 years and this sport will never be the same without Phil. My condolences for the loss of your wife. I'm glad your boys had you to carry on for them. I'm not a religious man but God bless you 🤘🏻🇬🇧
He's been the one and only positive constant in international cycling for the last 50 years. It won't be the same without him but it will carry on because of him.
With the loss of Paul Sherwinn and now the retirement of Phil Liggett... listening to cycling commentary will never be the same. Thank you Phil for many years of announcing! We'll miss you!
Phil has been total class for his entire career! Love his mastery of the English language…cycling won’t be the same without him to say the least. Enjoy your retirement fellow!!!
I am not ready for Phil’s retirement. He is iconic. His knowledge of cycling is beyond comprehensive. He has commentated for so many professional tours (including the Tour de France. I will miss him. May your retirement be full of fun and continue to make wonderful memories. You are one of the greatest commentators of all time. Wishing you health and happiness.
@@tripdudette Yeah, during NBC's broadcasting during this year's Tour, when Phil did that special side bar commentary (with video) about Paul and all he has done for promoting cycling in under-developed countries, I knew that Phil would probably be retiring this year. ☹ When he showed the old clips of the two of them commentating on past Tours/etc., I TOTALLY lost it. 😢
This man introduced me to the Tour de France and other bicycle races. I will miss his commentary. I will miss his voice. I will miss his honesty. I will miss the knowledge that he's so freely shared with all of us. There will never be another Phil Liggett . Be well and live long !!!
At 50 years old I'm actually tearing up learning this news and did cry when I learned of Mr. Sherwens passing in 2018. Phil and Paul were the voices of my childhood summers. Phil dedicated his life to a sport he loved and made so many people happy doing it. As far as I'm concerned Phil and Paul were the Tour De France, their commentary was a joy to listen to. It's hard to imagine the Tour without either of them but even a titan of the sport must retire at some point. Thank you for the happiness and memories Mr. Liggett, you will surely be missed!!! RIP Mr. Sherwen.
A absolute true legend!! No peer, no equal!! I think I’ve loved the Tour de France for so many yrs/decades bec of Phil’s commentary!!!! Thank you sir!!!
Since CBS started broadcsting the Tour in the early 80s, Phil has been in the middle of all of it. I swear I hear his voice in my head when I'm out on the bike. God bless you, Mr. Liggett.
Same here...I cant tell you how many time's I've heard Phil's voice in my head on a tough ride saying that I'm unpacking my suitcase of courage.he will be missed. 😢
As a young kid from Texas in the early 2000's, Phil and Paul were the sound of my July's! Watched ever stage of every tour for 10yrs straight. Hearing those old broadcasts are a wonderful trip down memory lane. Enjoy retirement Phil.
The tour will never be the same without that voice. I've been listening to Phil for 35 years. There are a few tears this morning. He's the absolute best.
Thanks so much Phil, you started my cycling story. I am now a Tour de France junkie. I now also cycle. No one comes close to your captivating commentary. Fantastic insights into how the TdF works, and what everyone's roles are. You will be truly missed.
A great piece for a legendary commentator. Of all the memories, Phil Liggett calling Stephen Roche over the line just behind Pedro Delgado at La Plagne in 1987 stands out. Electrifying.
Thank you Phil! As a former amateur racer I can't begin to tell you how much I have learned from and enjoyed your commentary. God speed! and remember- rubber side down!
Phil i owe my cycling career to you, the first time that drew me to the sport was your commentary of the battle between fingon & lemond, i will never forget that race, then the coverage of big mig, that familiar voice, the passion the knowledge of the sport, enjoy your time off sir, been an honour listening to your commentary Phil, really has.
Best cycling commentator ever! I will miss his wit, attitude, amusement, etc. Epitomized by his comment at the end - "No metals, 17 Olympics'."! Watching a cycling race will never be the same again. I hope you enjoy your retirement...it is well deserved!
We’re going to miss you as much as we have enjoyed you. Thank you for promoting cycling, and making our lives brighter and more colourful. Enjoy yourself Phil !
I am 61 on Aug 10th and have been watching Phil for all of my 37 years of watching and participating in cycling! Sure going to miss him! Chapeau Phil and Happy Birthday to a fellow Leo!
17 Olympics! You are much loved by those of us who have sat in our lounge rooms and absorbed your incisive and learnered commentaries over the decades, Phil. Fortunately. I have many Tour videos with your mellifluous voice overs to keep me company and continue your wonderful legacy.
I got this link just by chance but I could not be happier to watch my favorite cycling commentator!!! My story with Phil goes back to 1988 when we were running a YO YO promotion for Coca Cola and Channel nine!! I remember staying up late to see every day’ TDF stage highlights!!! Phil got me as one of his greatest followers something very difficult to achieve since in my country I could not get his broadcast!!! Back then there was no You Tube etc etc. This year I fulfilled one my life dreams and it was to attend two stages of the TDF and on top of that been able to say hello to Egan Bernal . Who could possibly ask for more!!! 17 Olympic Games and 52 TDF says it all about Phil!!! Nobody ever will get even closer to that “ record” my most sincere congratulations for helping us love Cycling even more!!!
Phil, you are a world treasure. Thank you so much for your dedication to our great sport of cycling. Your voice, your style has been the soundtrack of cycling as far as I can remember. Well done, mate. Enjoy a well-deserved retirement, good man! You will be dearly missed!
I think I've just retired from watching professional cycling. Phil is the GOAT. Can't imagine watching cycling without him.Thank you Phil and all the best.
The greatest there ever was. Cycling will never be the same without Phil. I started watching cycling and was immediately drawn in with his brilliant commentary. Thank you, Phil.
It was a sad enough day when we lost Paul Sherwen. Now that Mr. Liggett is retiring, cycling broadcasting will never be the same again. Happy retirement, sir. You will be missed.
It’s Phil’s voice. It’s Phil’s commentary. His descriptive words that ties you into the bike race. The tidbits of knowledge he sprinkles here and there. No one else like him. A legend as big as cycling itself.
Phil IS the voice of cycling. Ever since I started watching the Tour as a kid in the 80s, it was his voice that was synonymous with cycling. It's his voice that is in my head when I ride, pretending I'm on a solo breakaway, on my way back home. He will be sorely missed and those are huge shoes to fill. Thanks for bringing cycling into my life with your words and making me fall in love with such a beautiful sport.
A loss for the cycling fraternity. I had the pleasure of meeting him when he visited Cape Town for the Cape Town cycle tour. A true legend of the sport.
Phil, you will be missed by millions of people. I've loved every minute of your cycling coverage, not just of the Tour de France and the Olympics, but so many other cycling races. You and Paul were a power house for many years and my heart broke to hear of Pauls passing. My wife watched cycling with me and over the many years, came to know the sport as well or better than me. Sadly she died this March and I miss her terribly. I hate to see you leave, but you've earned a break for all your hard work. The coverage will go on, but there will never be another cycling broadcaster like you! ! ! Bless you for making cycling so popular to so many of us. Brian
Phil and Paul were and are greatly missed from our TV screens in the UK, it’s not the same without them. They sparked a life time love of cycling and introduced me to the Tour de France in the 80’s. My wife and I have cycled in France and been lucky enough to climb Alp d’heuz in 2000. RIP Paul and chapeau to Phil.
"Annoy the viewers" (?) you have done anything but that Phil. I've been listening to you call the Tour de France since 1999 and your commentary has been something I've looked forward to each summer. Thank you my friend.
Phil Liggett is the reason I watch the Tour de France. His commentary and voice make it fun and interesting to watch a bunch of guys riding bikes for hundreds, thousands of miles. Thank you for doing what you do Phil!
What a star! his knowledge, life stories and enthusiasm for the sport has motivated a lot of people to get on the bike and keep riding. Phil Liggett has been instrumental in improving fitness and French tourism for decades.
Mr. Liggett....you are the man who introduced me to The Tour de France when Bernard Hinault and Greg Lemond were both riding for La Vie Claire and your commentary to me is part of that great race....I was in awe of it.....and Tagej this year 👍 Thank you for your exceptional commentary over all these years. Best wishes in your retirement
Phil you’re amazing. Every time I listen you to you, Bob and Christian (and others) on the Tour I’m blown away by how you can entertain for literally hours each day. Cheers to a great retirement!
I've been listening to Phil since I first started road cycling in 1985 when he commentated for CBS to bring European cycling to the States. His voice is melodic, which is what makes him so enjoyable to listen too. His wealth of cycling knowledge is second to none. We're all going to miss you (just as much we miss Paul), but we all wish you the best in your retirement.
Our sport is changing and this has to be the biggest change. Thank you for all these wonderful years of cycling commentary. Your voice added a whole other level of class to our sport.
Phil is so epic. In my brain when I sprint on my own bicycle, I hear Phil Liggett commentating. I will miss him so much. What an incredible person. Phil’s commentating is more than commentating, it’s a masterclass in excellence.
Good on you Phil and thank you for all your hard work. I started watching the TDF in '86 and there are so many memorable moments from Phil's commentary - Hinault & Lemond at Alpe D'Huez, Roche at La Plane, Fignon's defeat in Paris, Abdoujaparov's crash and so many others.
OMG!!!!! Noooooo…..his voice will be missed forever!!!!! I don’t think no one could replace Phil, he is just the best!!!!! Happy retirement mate ♥️♥️♥️
It does with me too. I remember Phil shouting, “For the first time in this years TDF we cause to use the names that matter, Delgardo, Roche and Fignon” Great memories. I even have the Ch4 ring tone on my phone to this day, great memories
Cheers phil ,your absolute legend as an Australian grew up listening to yourself and the other great commentator in the buisness Richie Benaud ,enjoy your next chapter stay safe we will miss you 🇦🇺👍
Thank you Phil Liggett. I've listened to your expert commentary for so many hours! You educated me and entertained me, and did it so well. You've been a contant. Congratulations on your many accomplishments.
GOAT of Cycling announcers…I always watched the TDF🚴🚴♀️🚴♂️and it certainly was a pleasure to watch and listen to him on tv!! CONGRATS on your RETIRING and enjoy your life..THANKS for enriching my cycling tv race experience 👏👏👏👏👏👏👍
An absolute treasure! Will miss you deeply Phil, and can’t imagine not hearing your lovely voice commentate the sport of cycling. God Bless you and thank you for a wonderful ride!
This is SUCH sad news, but something I could tell was going to happen any year now over the last few years. He may not have the same exact same impact as far as bettering this planet and humanity as Sir David Attenborough, but Phil is in the exact same class of human. He is a legend. He has left a legacy that will endure forever and Phil IS the Tour de France and NOBODY will ever come close. This guy epitomizes class, respect, broadcasting integrity and he's just such a great treasure of broadcasting. He's the Greatest of All Time. To say he will leave a hole in cycling broadcasting is a massive understatement. He IS Cycling broadcasting. There is NOTHING without him. I don't even know how I'm going to watch the Tour anymore going forward. It's never going to be as good and nobody will come close. The clowns they have right now are so far below the level that Phil brings to the table, that it makes me so sad and hopeless for watching future Tours. I just feel so lucky to have listened and watched the last 21 editions of the Tour de France with Phil in the booth (and a lot of those with Paul as well). And the crown jewel of all of it was to watch Mark Cavendish win his historic 35th stage this year, while Phil got to watch and call the whole thing! And it was something I will never forget. I was screaming at Mark in my TV, "COME ON MARK, COME ON MARK, COME ON BABY! ONE TIME, JUST ONE. MORE. GD TIME!!! FOR EVERYONE. We need this just as much as you do! You HAVE to win! COME ON MARK!" And when I saw him jump diagonally left out of the bunch, I knew RIGHT at that moment in time, that Mark had already won the stage and started sobbing and screaming in tears of joy for him. It was one of the most emotional impactful moments I've ever watched live on TV and I know Phil felt the same way. It was the GREATEST ending to Phil's broadcasting career and I couldn't feel happier for Phil that he got to watch it with his own two eyes and be part of the whole thing. It sent shivers down my spine. The whole thing was just surreal and SO full of joy and happiness. Phil could barely keep it together later when discussing it and for Phil to be crying on air and trying to hold back that much emotion, you KNOW it must have been one of the most amazing moments of his life to be the one calling it. It was just one of those moments in life, where the good guys finally win. Where EVERYTHING aligned perfectly and the right outcome happened. And for a guy like Phil to be able to call Marks historic win was extremely special for him and for all of us to witness. I'll never forget that moment as long as live. There will NEVER be another team of Cycling broadcasters like Phil and Paul. And there will never be two Cycling broadcasters as good as Phil and Paul. RIP Paul, and thank you Phil for everything! Words can't describe how sad we feel. We hold you in the greatest esteem and want to thank you for so many great memories over the last 52 years!!! UN REAL! Truly the G.O.A.T.
We will miss your commentating our dear MC ! Your voice alone is a breath of fresh air for the sport of cycling & beyond. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement ❤
Fantastic interview. I've loved your presence on the various broadcasts through the years and will certainly miss seeing and hearing you. Enjoy the very well deserved retirement! Also that "Phil Liggett. No Medals. 17 Olympics." quip is absolutely fantastic and perfectly embodies why we've loved you for so long.
There will never be an announcer like Phil Liggett! God Bless you for bringing us all the nuances and essence of the world of cycling! Peace and enjoy retirement sir.
Phil, I can't imagine watching a single cycling event without your beautiful voice. Happy retirement. You'll be missed.
Well said. It was bad when Paul left us, especially since Roll is such a tool. But now without Phil, I don't think I can watch. I have not heard any cycling commentary that is worth listening to outside of him.
He said he was retiring from doing the Olympics. He never said anything about other annual races.
@@buffalobilly6046 Wow, you obviously haven't listened very well, good riddance Phil
I agree completely.
Goats are born every day
Paul Sherwen and Phil Liggett. Two legendary commentators. Thank you for everything you've done for cycling.
Cycling will never be the same without Phil Liggett.
Yeah, we will miss him badly
They don't get any better. Going to miss him..
Phil has been the voice of cycling for so many of us for so long!! I've watched every TDF (and other events) for the past 40+ years and Phil has been the voice of cycling for me that whole time. It will be so very sad to see him leave but it is time. I've been quoted as saying some things about all the mistakes he's been making over the last 3 seasons and I meant no harm by it. I just didn't want to see him tarnish his legacy by staying in the sport too long. This is a very sad day for me and many others but it was the right call.
WE LOVE YOU PHIL AND YOU ARE GOING TO BE MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN!!!
🤘🏻🇬🇧
And his shilling and cosying up for a doped rider against legitimate questions and criticism by actual journalists.
@@SvalbardSleeperDistrict I like Phil, but his bias and refusal to report much less acknowledge the credible doping reports by the French media even before the Armstrong confessions is a real disappointment and stain on this man’s wonderful career. Phil made a mistake. He’s admitted as such. Yes, some would say it was too little too late.
THE VOICE of cycling. You, sir, will be sorely missed. 🙏🙏
The voice of denial. The voice of the past. I'm glad he's done. I won't miss him at all.
End of an era. The voice of cycling. Irreplaceable and more. You’ll be missed deeply missed Phil
I've been listening to Phil's commentating since the 1987 Tour de France. As a 13-year-old boy seeing professional cycling for the first time on CBS Sports, his poetic commentary on how the race was unfolding was utterly captivating for me, turning me into a fan for life. Since then, he (and before his passing, Paul Sherwin) became synonymous with cycling for me and thousands of others. It's unthinkable to imagine professional cycling without him.
Mr. Liggett, I want to extend to you my sincerest thanks for introducing me and so many others to this beautiful sport. When we remember all of the special moments of cycling during that time, it's your voice commentating on those moments that also rings in our heads and helps to make those memories so vivid. Chapeau, sir!
Absolutely mate!!
Phil has been the voice of cycling for so many of us for so long!! I've watched every TDF (and other events) for the past 40+ years and Phil has been the voice of cycling for me that whole time. It will be so very sad to see him leave but it is time. I've been quoted as saying some things about all the mistakes he's been making over the last 3 seasons and I meant no harm by it. I just didn't want to see him tarnish his legacy by staying in the sport too long. This is a very sad day for me and many others but it was the right call.
WE LOVE YOU PHIL AND YOU ARE GOING TO BE MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN!!!
🤘🏻🇬🇧
BEAUTIFULLY stated!! 👍👍👍
I started 10 years after you but your comment applies identically for me. Beautifully worded, thank you 🙏
@@dutchrye you're right back then it was CBS wild world of sports. I didn't even think of that until now. NBC wasn't the juggernaut it is now. I'm not sure if you're in the States (it sounds like it since you mentioned CBS) but now NBC and their peacock streaming service has really brought cycling to us in a new way and I'm so happy I got to watch it all these years with Phil and Paul. When Paul passed I shed a tear. I really did. This is a bit different, Phil is bowing out and we knew it would be coming soon. I'm glad he got to retire as the legend he is and we didn't lose him like we lost Paul. Myself being an Englishman Phil has always been the main character of the sport for me
🤘🏻🇬🇧
He is the GOAT 🐐of Professional cycling commentary
Yes. The David Attenborough of Pro cycling commentary!
absolutely. the pinnacle of cycling "commentrey"
Not certainly not.
He wasn't always perfect, certainly not in his later years, but he was THE voice of cycling to me for the last 2 decades I have been watching racing. I missed Paul when he was gone, and I will miss Phil as well. God bless you both.
@@ShimmyD-u7gnobody is perfect
Phil's voice, humble and gentle demeanor, his experience and knowledge of the world of cycling, will go unmatched for a long time. Thank you Phil!
Watching the Tour De France with Phil Commentating made me a real fan. Happy Retirement you Legend
Walking around the media pen on the day Bradley Wiggins would win the TT, and consequently the TDF, I saw Phil going in. I said to my son look there’s Phil Liggett! He turned around walked out, shook our hands and asked if we were ready to see history made today? Chapeau Phil.
He truly has been the sound track of cycling. He and Paul Sherwen gave me so many cycling memories. Thank you!
As I was leaving stage 19 this year I walked with my friends through the area with all of the media trucks and had the absolute pleasure of running into Mr. Liggett as he was leaving. I asked if I could shake his hand, and he said yes and asked me how I enjoyed the stage. I told him that it was amazing, and that this was my first time both in Europe and second time watching the Tour in person, after seeing stage 4 two weeks earlier. He said "well you sure know how to pick them!", I thanked him for everything, and then as a goodbye he told me to never lose my passion for cycling. I really appreciated that moment and Phil's willingness to talk to and connect with a fan after a long day in the commentary box. Thank you for everything you've done for the sport, Phil, and I hope you enjoy your well-earned retirement!
BEST COMMENT
Phil was a genuine commentator and a great media front for cycling. He will be missed.
Very cool mate!! He's been the voice of cycling for me for over 40 years and he will definitely be missed. This sport will never be the same without him!!
🤘🏻🇬🇧
We will all miss Phil, he will always be, the voice, of cycling
Jesus this made me tear up
Friend to cycling fans everywhere. Gentleman. Legend
Retiring at 81! Thank you for the decades of phenomenal cycling coverage, Phil!!!!! Enjoy your well deserved retirement! ❤❤❤
I lost my wife a month before we lost Paul. I had three teenage sons and my role was clear. A month later I was inexplicably destroyed with my sorrow for Phil and Paul’s family at their loss. I have choked up every time Phil has taken the microphone. His strength to carry on has given me strength. Thank you sir. You are more than the voice of cycling.
I was in tears when I heard Paul had passed. I had always hoped he would carry on when Phil retired .. but we lost him first.
I agree 100% mate. Hearing about Paul made me cry. The two of those men have been the voice of cycling for me for over 40 years and this sport will never be the same without Phil.
My condolences for the loss of your wife. I'm glad your boys had you to carry on for them. I'm not a religious man but God bless you
🤘🏻🇬🇧
He's been the one and only positive constant in international cycling for the last 50 years. It won't be the same without him but it will carry on because of him.
With the loss of Paul Sherwinn and now the retirement of Phil Liggett... listening to cycling commentary will never be the same. Thank you Phil for many years of announcing! We'll miss you!
What happened to Paul?
@@Grandizer8989 Died of heart failure in 2018.
Phil has been total class for his entire career! Love his mastery of the English language…cycling won’t be the same without him to say the least. Enjoy your retirement fellow!!!
I am not ready for Phil’s retirement. He is iconic. His knowledge of cycling is beyond comprehensive. He has commentated for so many professional tours (including the Tour de France. I will miss him. May your retirement be full of fun and continue to make wonderful memories. You are one of the greatest commentators of all time. Wishing you health and happiness.
100% and dont forget The late Paul Sherwin
@@dilligaf2818Phil & Paul were such a legendary team ❤️.
@@dilligaf2818 Yes. They made a formidable team.
@@tripdudette Yeah, during NBC's broadcasting during this year's Tour, when Phil did that special side bar commentary (with video) about Paul and all he has done for promoting cycling in under-developed countries, I knew that Phil would probably be retiring this year. ☹
When he showed the old clips of the two of them commentating on past Tours/etc., I TOTALLY lost it. 😢
This man introduced me to the Tour de France and other bicycle races. I will miss his commentary. I will miss his voice. I will miss his honesty. I will miss the knowledge that he's so freely shared with all of us. There will never be another Phil Liggett . Be well and live long !!!
At 50 years old I'm actually tearing up learning this news and did cry when I learned of Mr. Sherwens passing in 2018. Phil and Paul were the voices of my childhood summers. Phil dedicated his life to a sport he loved and made so many people happy doing it. As far as I'm concerned Phil and Paul were the Tour De France, their commentary was a joy to listen to. It's hard to imagine the Tour without either of them but even a titan of the sport must retire at some point. Thank you for the happiness and memories Mr. Liggett, you will surely be missed!!!
RIP Mr. Sherwen.
1000%
Yep! Paul was awesome, too! I always chuckle remembering his call, "Armstrong jumps across the gap like a scalded cat!" Brilliant!
What he said ^
Same, I felt like I lost a friend when Paul Sherwin died.
A absolute true legend!! No peer, no equal!! I think I’ve loved the Tour de France for so many yrs/decades bec of Phil’s commentary!!!! Thank you sir!!!
Since CBS started broadcsting the Tour in the early 80s, Phil has been in the middle of all of it. I swear I hear his voice in my head when I'm out on the bike. God bless you, Mr. Liggett.
Same here...I cant tell you how many time's I've heard Phil's voice in my head on a tough ride saying that I'm unpacking my suitcase of courage.he will be missed. 😢
As a young kid from Texas in the early 2000's, Phil and Paul were the sound of my July's! Watched ever stage of every tour for 10yrs straight. Hearing those old broadcasts are a wonderful trip down memory lane. Enjoy retirement Phil.
Phil is an absolute icon. How can you have a cycling race without Phil. I'm going to miss him and his voice so very much. Great commentator.
The best cycling commentator. So great to listen to him over the years.
Loved this guy for years. His voice is iconic.
The tour will never be the same without that voice. I've been listening to Phil for 35 years. There are a few tears this morning. He's the absolute best.
The absolute GOAT! There will never be another Phil Liggett! One of my all time sporting heros! Thank you sir for bringing the world so much joy!
Phil deserves a wonderful retirement. Cycling will never be the same. SO THANK YOU ...HEALTH AND HAPPINESS . The cycling world loves you.
Thanks so much Phil, you started my cycling story. I am now a Tour de France junkie. I now also cycle. No one comes close to your captivating commentary. Fantastic insights into how the TdF works, and what everyone's roles are. You will be truly missed.
Perfectly said and I feel exactly the same
A great piece for a legendary commentator. Of all the memories, Phil Liggett calling Stephen Roche over the line just behind Pedro Delgado at La Plagne in 1987 stands out. Electrifying.
Congratulations Phil, you will be missed, appreciated and remembered for many a year to come.
It's has been a pleasure and honor to have you with us all these years. - CHEERS
Thank you Phil! As a former amateur racer I can't begin to tell you how much I have learned from and enjoyed your commentary. God speed! and remember- rubber side down!
Phil i owe my cycling career to you, the first time that drew me to the sport was your commentary of the battle between fingon & lemond, i will never forget that race, then the coverage of big mig, that familiar voice, the passion the knowledge of the sport, enjoy your time off sir, been an honour listening to your commentary Phil, really has.
Nobody can call a road race like Phil and Paul. We're going to miss you and your "suitcase of courage". Thanks for all the memories.
Phil is the absolute epitome of decency. He brought the Tour de France and cycling to the masses.
legend! I'm a 66 yo German and for decades I enjoyed road races with the voice of Phil Liggett!!! All the best and God bless the years to come!
What an absolute legend of broadcasting, he is cycling.
Phil Leggett is a institution and the voice of cycling for many generations. He will be missed but his retirement is well deserved. Chapeau, Sir!
As they say in Paris may he have "une longue et heureuse retraite".
I've grown up my whole life listening to Phil! ...... and I'm almost 60! Have a great life Phil. Thanks for all the good rides!
It was a race worth watching when you heard Phil’s voice. Thanks for adding joy to my sport of choice.
Best cycling commentator ever! I will miss his wit, attitude, amusement, etc. Epitomized by his comment at the end - "No metals, 17 Olympics'."! Watching a cycling race will never be the same again. I hope you enjoy your retirement...it is well deserved!
Phil is the voice of cycling for me. What a precious human being he is! Will miss you Phil. Thank you for all the years of commentating.
Simply a legend. Huge gratitude for his insight and enthusiasm. I love the sport and he is a huge reason why. All the best, Phil. Thank you!
Never watched a TDF without this great man's voice, HE WILL BE MISSED!
"Be missed", by whom? Obviously not by you, otherwise you'd write "I will miss him".
@@einundsiebenziger5488 PEDANTIC MUCH?
We’re going to miss you as much as we have enjoyed you. Thank you for promoting cycling, and making our lives brighter and more colourful.
Enjoy yourself Phil !
I am 61 on Aug 10th and have been watching Phil for all of my 37 years of watching and participating in cycling! Sure going to miss him! Chapeau Phil and Happy Birthday to a fellow Leo!
Canadians all love Phil. He taught us so much. His voice and enthusiasm for the sport drew me in further and further over the years.
17 Olympics! You are much loved by those of us who have sat in our lounge rooms and absorbed your incisive and learnered commentaries over the decades, Phil. Fortunately. I have many Tour videos with your mellifluous voice overs to keep me company and continue your wonderful legacy.
I got this link just by chance but I could not be happier to watch my favorite cycling commentator!!! My story with Phil goes back to 1988 when we were running a YO YO promotion for Coca Cola and Channel nine!! I remember staying up late to see every day’ TDF stage highlights!!! Phil got me as one of his greatest followers something very difficult to achieve since in my country I could not get his broadcast!!! Back then there was no You Tube etc etc.
This year I fulfilled one my life dreams and it was to attend two stages of the TDF and on top of that been able to say hello to Egan Bernal . Who could possibly ask for more!!! 17 Olympic Games and 52 TDF says it all about Phil!!! Nobody ever will get even closer to that “ record” my most sincere congratulations for helping us love Cycling even more!!!
Thank you Phil. My favourite commentator of the last 30 years I've been following cycling. It wouldn't have been the same without you.
Phil, you are a world treasure. Thank you so much for your dedication to our great sport of cycling. Your voice, your style has been the soundtrack of cycling as far as I can remember. Well done, mate. Enjoy a well-deserved retirement, good man! You will be dearly missed!
A world treasure 🌎🏆 indeed
I think I've just retired from watching professional cycling. Phil is the GOAT. Can't imagine watching cycling without him.Thank you Phil and all the best.
The greatest there ever was. Cycling will never be the same without Phil. I started watching cycling and was immediately drawn in with his brilliant commentary. Thank you, Phil.
He’s a legend. I will miss him. He was my favorite commentator especially when he and Paul Sherwin commented together
It was a sad enough day when we lost Paul Sherwen.
Now that Mr. Liggett is retiring, cycling broadcasting will never be the same again.
Happy retirement, sir. You will be missed.
I feel like I’ve been listening to Phil all my life. He is as much a cycling legend as many of the cycling greats.
You have! He is the nonpareil of his profession.
It’s Phil’s voice. It’s Phil’s commentary. His descriptive words that ties you into the bike race. The tidbits of knowledge he sprinkles here and there. No one else like him. A legend as big as cycling itself.
Thank you, Phil, for the massive amount you have done to promote cycling!
Phil IS the voice of cycling. Ever since I started watching the Tour as a kid in the 80s, it was his voice that was synonymous with cycling. It's his voice that is in my head when I ride, pretending I'm on a solo breakaway, on my way back home. He will be sorely missed and those are huge shoes to fill. Thanks for bringing cycling into my life with your words and making me fall in love with such a beautiful sport.
A loss for the cycling fraternity. I had the pleasure of meeting him when he visited Cape Town for the Cape Town cycle tour. A true legend of the sport.
Phil and Paul have been and always will be the voice of professional cycling for me. Thank you sir for the many years service.
Phil, you will be missed by millions of people. I've loved every minute of your cycling coverage, not just of the Tour de France and the Olympics, but so many other cycling races. You and Paul were a power house for many years and my heart broke to hear of Pauls passing. My wife watched cycling with me and over the many years, came to know the sport as well or better than me. Sadly she died this March and I miss her terribly. I hate to see you leave, but you've earned a break for all your hard work. The coverage will go on, but there will never be another cycling broadcaster like you! ! ! Bless you for making cycling so popular to so many of us. Brian
Phil and Paul were and are greatly missed from our TV screens in the UK, it’s not the same without them. They sparked a life time love of cycling and introduced me to the Tour de France in the 80’s. My wife and I have cycled in France and been lucky enough to climb Alp d’heuz in 2000. RIP Paul and chapeau to Phil.
"Annoy the viewers" (?) you have done anything but that Phil. I've been listening to you call the Tour de France since 1999 and your commentary has been something I've looked forward to each summer. Thank you my friend.
Phil Liggett is the reason I watch the Tour de France. His commentary and voice make it fun and interesting to watch a bunch of guys riding bikes for hundreds, thousands of miles. Thank you for doing what you do Phil!
Thank you for all the years Phil. You're the best to ever call a race. You will be greatly missed. Chapeau.
What a star! his knowledge, life stories and enthusiasm for the sport has motivated a lot of people to get on the bike and keep riding. Phil Liggett has been instrumental in improving fitness and French tourism for decades.
Mr. Liggett....you are the man who introduced me to The Tour de France when Bernard Hinault and Greg Lemond were both riding for La Vie Claire and your commentary to me is part of that great race....I was in awe of it.....and Tagej this year 👍
Thank you for your exceptional commentary over all these years.
Best wishes in your retirement
Phil you’re amazing. Every time I listen you to you, Bob and Christian (and others) on the Tour I’m blown away by how you can entertain for literally hours each day. Cheers to a great retirement!
Well deserved Phil! I’ll truly miss your calm, silk voice. You’re the GOAT.
What a lovely, friendly and approachable man and im so pleased to have met and chatted to him at the top of Arthurs Seat.
Congratulations! Been watching your commentary since '86 tour. Toast to a gentleman of cycling 🥂. Thanks for all the memories. Wish you the best.
I've been listening to Phil since I first started road cycling in 1985 when he commentated for CBS to bring European cycling to the States. His voice is melodic, which is what makes him so enjoyable to listen too. His wealth of cycling knowledge is second to none. We're all going to miss you (just as much we miss Paul), but we all wish you the best in your retirement.
Our sport is changing and this has to be the biggest change. Thank you for all these wonderful years of cycling commentary. Your voice added a whole other level of class to our sport.
Phil, you are amazing and you were a huge force in inspiring so many to engage in cycling. Not only viewing, but riding. Always a talent.
Thank you
We will miss you Phil, been watching/listening to you for 30+ years👏
Phil is so epic. In my brain when I sprint on my own bicycle, I hear Phil Liggett commentating. I will miss him so much. What an incredible person. Phil’s commentating is more than commentating, it’s a masterclass in excellence.
Miss you, Phil. A true cycling legend. You've made cycling a great sport to watch.
Good on you Phil and thank you for all your hard work. I started watching the TDF in '86 and there are so many memorable moments from Phil's commentary - Hinault & Lemond at Alpe D'Huez, Roche at La Plane, Fignon's defeat in Paris, Abdoujaparov's crash and so many others.
OMG!!!!! Noooooo…..his voice will be missed forever!!!!! I don’t think no one could replace Phil, he is just the best!!!!! Happy retirement mate ♥️♥️♥️
This can’t be!! This sport will never be the same without that voice.. 😢 wishing this lovely Man all good things!!! ❤
Indeed, Phil’s voice still echoes in my mind of many specific coverages. Thank you for sharing ur passion, coverage and voice. ❤
It does with me too. I remember Phil shouting, “For the first time in this years TDF we cause to use the names that matter, Delgardo, Roche and Fignon” Great memories. I even have the Ch4 ring tone on my phone to this day, great memories
Voice of cycling. Thank you.
The end of an era, THE LEGEND!! Happy retirement and God bless, I can't imagine watching Le Tour without your voice! 😢
Not only a fantastic voice. A true and honest gentleman. You are amazing. God Bless You!!
Cheers phil ,your absolute legend as an Australian grew up listening to yourself and the other great commentator in the buisness Richie Benaud ,enjoy your next chapter stay safe we will miss you 🇦🇺👍
Thank you Phil Liggett. I've listened to your expert commentary for so many hours! You educated me and entertained me, and did it so well. You've been a contant. Congratulations on your many accomplishments.
GOAT of Cycling announcers…I always watched the TDF🚴🚴♀️🚴♂️and it certainly was a pleasure to watch and listen to him on tv!! CONGRATS on your RETIRING and enjoy your life..THANKS for enriching my cycling tv race experience 👏👏👏👏👏👏👍
An absolute treasure! Will miss you deeply Phil, and can’t imagine not hearing your lovely voice commentate the sport of cycling. God Bless you and thank you for a wonderful ride!
He will be missed. My earliest memories of the Tour are with Phil commentating.
This is SUCH sad news, but something I could tell was going to happen any year now over the last few years. He may not have the same exact same impact as far as bettering this planet and humanity as Sir David Attenborough, but Phil is in the exact same class of human. He is a legend. He has left a legacy that will endure forever and Phil IS the Tour de France and NOBODY will ever come close.
This guy epitomizes class, respect, broadcasting integrity and he's just such a great treasure of broadcasting. He's the Greatest of All Time. To say he will leave a hole in cycling broadcasting is a massive understatement. He IS Cycling broadcasting. There is NOTHING without him. I don't even know how I'm going to watch the Tour anymore going forward. It's never going to be as good and nobody will come close. The clowns they have right now are so far below the level that Phil brings to the table, that it makes me so sad and hopeless for watching future Tours.
I just feel so lucky to have listened and watched the last 21 editions of the Tour de France with Phil in the booth (and a lot of those with Paul as well). And the crown jewel of all of it was to watch Mark Cavendish win his historic 35th stage this year, while Phil got to watch and call the whole thing! And it was something I will never forget. I was screaming at Mark in my TV, "COME ON MARK, COME ON MARK, COME ON BABY! ONE TIME, JUST ONE. MORE. GD TIME!!! FOR EVERYONE. We need this just as much as you do! You HAVE to win! COME ON MARK!" And when I saw him jump diagonally left out of the bunch, I knew RIGHT at that moment in time, that Mark had already won the stage and started sobbing and screaming in tears of joy for him. It was one of the most emotional impactful moments I've ever watched live on TV and I know Phil felt the same way. It was the GREATEST ending to Phil's broadcasting career and I couldn't feel happier for Phil that he got to watch it with his own two eyes and be part of the whole thing. It sent shivers down my spine. The whole thing was just surreal and SO full of joy and happiness.
Phil could barely keep it together later when discussing it and for Phil to be crying on air and trying to hold back that much emotion, you KNOW it must have been one of the most amazing moments of his life to be the one calling it. It was just one of those moments in life, where the good guys finally win. Where EVERYTHING aligned perfectly and the right outcome happened. And for a guy like Phil to be able to call Marks historic win was extremely special for him and for all of us to witness. I'll never forget that moment as long as live.
There will NEVER be another team of Cycling broadcasters like Phil and Paul. And there will never be two Cycling broadcasters as good as Phil and Paul. RIP Paul, and thank you Phil for everything! Words can't describe how sad we feel. We hold you in the greatest esteem and want to thank you for so many great memories over the last 52 years!!! UN REAL! Truly the G.O.A.T.
We will miss your commentating our dear MC ! Your voice alone is a breath of fresh air for the sport of cycling & beyond. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement ❤
Absolute legend, I hope he still gets to travel and enjoy cycling as much as possible as a fan and statesman of the sport. He looks great for 81!
Phil was the melodic voice of cycling broadcasts, an iconic personage, and his voice will be missed.
Fantastic interview. I've loved your presence on the various broadcasts through the years and will certainly miss seeing and hearing you. Enjoy the very well deserved retirement! Also that "Phil Liggett. No Medals. 17 Olympics." quip is absolutely fantastic and perfectly embodies why we've loved you for so long.
Phil made Tour de France wholesome!! I hope he returns for the tour.
There will never be an announcer like Phil Liggett! God Bless you for bringing us all the nuances and essence of the world of cycling! Peace and enjoy retirement sir.