Golfers everywhere gathered to say goodbye to longtime player and sportscaster Mark Carnevale on a depressing day for the sport.
In reference to the veteran’s unexpected passing on Monday, a sorrowful Jay Monahan said, “We will miss Mark and send our condolences to his loved ones.” He wasn’t the only one in the community, either, as Billy Horschel and others sent their condolences in the same manner.
When the American professional learned of the 64-year-old golfer’s passing, he posted a tweet on his X account. Horschel posted, “Very sad news. Carney was a great guy.” I enjoyed our conversation at the TPC Sawgrass back of range. He was an avid golfer. We shall miss him.
The deceased athlete began competing professionally in 1983 and participated in 212 men’s circuit events. He managed to win just one tournament, the 1992 Chattanooga Classic, out of the same, despite making 86 cuts. In 2005, the deceased golfer decided to give up on his career as a tour player and assumed the position of tournament director for the Virginia Beach Open on the Korn Ferry Tour.
A few years later, the golf world lost one of its most influential voices when Carnevale made the decision to join the circuit as a reporter, covering events for Sirius XM Tour Radio. Given his profound impact on the history of the game, it is surprising that the golf community hasn’t come together to grieve Carnevale’s passing.
Netizens are mourning Carnevale’s passing with Billy Horschel.
PGA Tour Entertainment Senior VP and Executive Producer Greg Hopfe said, “Mark Carnevale was an integral part of live coverage on our streaming platforms and PGA TOUR Radio coverage,” following the sad news. He emphasized Carnevale’s perceptive analysis and humor while discussing his work ethic and unwavering professionalism at work. Likewise, Colt Knost, a fellow colleague and co-host of SiriusXM’s Gravy and the Sleeze program, tweeted, “RIP Mark Carnevale. @SiriusXMPGATOUR won’t be the same without him! among the greatest in the industry.
The presenter was a regular at many competitions. He was praised for being sociable, witty, and at ease around the players. Furthermore, throughout the course of the 20 years, Carnevale conducted post-round interviews with numerous elite golfers, never hesitating to keep tabs on the activity on the course. As a result, a few fans couldn’t resist commenting on how much they would miss the former professional.
“Stinging news. I appreciated the old-school nature of Carney (so much so that I kept asking to work with him more.) His deep love for the game with passionate discussions about rules, theories, and design. His distinct voice. His big heart,” and “Omnipresent on PGA TOUR radio coverage. Even when someone else was speaking, you expected to hear his voice next. Incredibly sad.”
The last event that Carnevale covered was the Genesis Scottish Open which took place at the Renaissance Club. What’s more, he was even scheduled to take part in the upcoming 3M Open that was to take place at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota. Interestingly, many were looking forward to hearing him on the radio as well as they expressed the same while conveying their condolences; “This stinks. I always enjoyed listening to Carney on Thursday and Friday mornings. RIP” and “Heartbreaking news. We will miss him so much. Loved listening to him on the radio and TV. Great friend, great man.” It truly was nothing short of devastating news for the lovers of the sport. But his legacy will surely remain in the hearts of his many fans and admirers.