Overview

• ESPN confirmed the 84-year-old broadcaster will step away after this US Open, concluding a tenure that spans nearly five decades.
• An emotional tribute video aired during the tournament, and Drysdale thanked colleagues as he reacted to messages that included a voiceover from friend Jack Nicklaus.
• Drysdale has been with ESPN since its launch year and called the network’s first tennis telecast, establishing a 46-year presence on major events.
• Before the booth, the South Africa–born former pro reached a career-high world No. 4, played the 1965 U.S. Open final, and entered the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2013.
• Neither ESPN nor Drysdale has provided a reason for the retirement, and there are no confirmed reports that a health issue is involved.