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Legendary golf referee John Paramor has died at the age of 67. He built a stellar reputation over the years before retiring from golf in 2020.
Paramor had also worked as chief referee on the DP World Tour. He passed away on Friday due to an unspecified illness. The news shocked the golf world and players paid tribute to the star referee during the PGA Tour tournament and the DP World Tour's ongoing event.
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The American Tour players wore black ribbons during the third round of the 2023 Genesis Invitational, while the DP World Tour players held a minute's silence before the start of the third round of the Thailand Classic. Golfers took to their social media accounts to pay tribute to John Paramor.
The Englishman was blessed with a most illustrious career. He officiated more than 600 tournaments on the European Tour.
John Paramor was part of the 150 European Tours and served as the referee in 10 Ryder Cups. He was also involved in numerous high-profile golf events, including the US Open and The Open Championship.
Golfers mourn the death of the John Paramor
John Paramor's immense impact on the golf world is undeniable. His death has shocked the golfing community.
Legendary golfer Tiger Woods, who returned to compete at the Genesis Invitational, expressed his shock at the news in his interview.
“I did not know that. One of the all-time best rules officials", said Woods. "John was around when I first turned pro and had been a staple obviously on the European Tour and all the World Golf Championships, when he came over here and was a rules official. Just a great guy. I'm a little bit taken back by that.”
Rory McIlroy also opened up about Paramor and his contribution to the game. He warmly remembered him:
"Even before I came on Tour, John was a beloved character within the game of golf and I got to know him quite well over the past few years. And yeah, it’s really sad. He was always a friendly face to see out on Tour and I always loved my conversations with him, so yeah, it’s a sad day and he’ll be very fondly remembered by the whole golf community.”
LIV golfer Graeme McDowell thanked John Paramor in a tweet. He wrote:
“Sad loss for golf with the passing of John Paramor. He was a great man who had a huge impact on my golf career and I’m thankful for his leadership and the ever present fairness he did a difficult job with. Thoughts and prayers with his family.”
Patrick Reed also paid tribute to John Paramor via his social media account. He tweeted:
"Very sad to hear the news of Mr. John Paramor’s passing... he was an official who was so well respected by all players. May you rest in peace. We send our deepest condolences to your family and loved ones.”
John Paramor's passion for and influence on the game will live on in the collective memory. The golf community will always remember him for his unflinching integrity and extraordinary professionalism throughout his career.
