Frank Nobilo – CBS Sports Analyst Prepares for 2025 Masters Tournament Coverage
Frank Nobilo is stepping into a legendary role at CBS Sports. The veteran broadcaster and former pro golfer will take over for Verne Lundquist in the 16th tower at Augusta National for the 2025 Masters Tournament. Nobilo joined CBS’s golf coverage in 2015, replacing Peter Oosterhuis. He has since become a familiar voice to golf fans through his analytical commentary.
At 64 years old, Nobilo brings both playing and broadcasting experience to this prestigious assignment. Before his television career, the New Zealander had a successful playing career on professional tours worldwide. His smooth transition to broadcasting has earned him respect among viewers and colleagues alike.
The move represents a significant shift in CBS’s golf coverage landscape. Lundquist’s departure from the 16th tower marks the end of an era, while Nobilo’s appointment signals the network’s confidence in his ability to carry on the tradition of excellence at one of golf’s most iconic tournaments.
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Professional Background
Frank Nobilo built an impressive career both on the golf course and behind the microphone. His journey from professional player to respected broadcaster showcases his deep understanding of the game and ability to communicate effectively with golf fans worldwide.
Early Career Achievements
Frank Nobilo, born May 14, 1960, established himself as one of New Zealand’s finest golfers during his playing days. He accumulated an impressive 14 professional victories throughout his career, competing across multiple international tours.
Nobilo’s talent was evident during his time on the PGA Tour of Australasia, where he claimed several significant victories. His performance on the European Tour also caught attention, demonstrating his versatility across different courses and conditions.
While Nobilo didn’t capture a Major Championship, he competed admirably in these prestigious events. His best Major performance came at the 1996 U.S. Open, where he finished tied for fourth place.
Representing New Zealand in international competitions further highlighted his status as one of the country’s premier golfers during his era.
Transition to Broadcasting
After winding down his playing career, Nobilo made a seamless transition to broadcasting, where his analytical skills and deep golf knowledge immediately resonated with viewers. His broadcasting journey began with the Golf Channel, where he quickly established himself as an insightful commentator.
Nobilo’s expertise led to roles with both NBC Sports and CBS Sports, creating a substantial broadcasting portfolio. At Golf Channel, he contributed to their “Live From” coverage of major tournaments, providing pre and post-round analysis.
His work at CBS Sports has become particularly notable, serving as a course reporter and analyst for their golf coverage. Recently, news broke that Nobilo will be replacing Verne Lundquist as the 16th tower analyst for the 2025 Masters Tournament.
Awards and Recognition
Nobilo’s contributions to golf have earned him significant recognition both in his native New Zealand and throughout the golfing world. In 1998, he was awarded the Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) for his services to golf.
His expertise as a broadcaster hasn’t gone unnoticed either. Nobilo has received praise for his technical analysis and ability to break down the game’s complexities for viewers at home.
His dual success—first as a player and then as a broadcaster—represents a rare achievement in golf. While many former players transition to broadcasting, few have matched Nobilo’s level of respect and credibility in both arenas.
Nobilo continues to be a fixture on CBS Sports’ golf coverage, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to tournaments throughout the year.
CBS Sports Involvement
Frank Nobilo has established himself as a prominent figure in golf broadcasting at CBS Sports. His analysis and commentary have become integral parts of CBS’s golf coverage, particularly for major tournaments like The Masters.
Roles and Responsibilities
Nobilo joined CBS Sports full-time in 2020, stepping into the role of golf analyst after previously working with Golf Channel and NBC Sports. He brings technical expertise and insights from his professional playing career to the broadcast.
As part of the CBS broadcast team, Nobilo works alongside Jim Nantz, Trevor Immelman, and other respected commentators. His primary responsibility involves providing in-depth analysis of player techniques, course strategy, and tournament developments.
In a significant development, CBS recently announced that Nobilo will replace the legendary Verne Lundquist as the 16th hole tower analyst for the 2025 Masters Tournament. This position is highly prestigious in golf broadcasting circles.
His annual compensation at CBS is estimated to be in the $750,000-$900,000 range, reflecting his value to the network’s golf coverage.
Notable Events Covered
Nobilo’s CBS portfolio includes coverage of several marquee golf tournaments. The crown jewel is undoubtedly The Masters, where he’ll now handle commentary duties at the iconic 16th hole starting in 2025.
He regularly provides analysis for other major championships including the PGA Championship, where his technical expertise helps viewers understand the challenges players face on difficult courses.
The New Zealander has also been central to CBS’s coverage of team events like the Presidents Cup and Ryder Cup. His international playing background gives him unique perspective on these competitions.
During his time as a full-time CBS analyst, Nobilo has developed a reputation for clear, insightful commentary that appeals to both casual fans and serious golfers.
Expert Analysis
Frank Nobilo brings deep golf knowledge and insightful commentary to CBS Sports broadcasts. His analytical approach combines technical expertise with an ability to explain complex aspects of the game in accessible terms.
Major Tournament Commentary
Nobilo has established himself as a cornerstone of CBS’s coverage at major tournaments. His work at The Masters will take on new significance in 2025 as he replaces Verne Lundquist at the iconic 16th hole tower.
The New Zealander’s commentary during Jordan Spieth’s remarkable 2015 Masters victory showcased his ability to blend technical analysis with emotional storytelling. Viewers regularly praise his calm delivery during tense moments.
“Frank sees things other analysts miss,” noted one CBS producer. “He can spot a minor grip adjustment and explain why it’s causing a player’s struggles.”
His work covering Justin Thomas’s PGA Championship victories demonstrated his skill at contextualizing pressure situations. Nobilo often references wind conditions and course management decisions that casual viewers might overlook.
Player Evaluations
Nobilo’s experience as a former PGA Tour professional gives his player evaluations unique credibility. He consistently provides viewers with technical breakdowns of swing mechanics without resorting to jargon.
When analyzing top players, Nobilo focuses on specific aspects:
| Player Aspect | Nobilo’s Analytical Approach |
|---|---|
| Swing Mechanics | Identifies key technical elements and adjustments |
| Course Management | Evaluates strategic decisions and risk assessment |
| Mental Approach | Discusses psychological factors impacting performance |
| Statistical Strengths | Highlights relevant performance metrics |
His commentary on major winners often includes historical context. During broadcasts, he regularly compares current stars to legends of previous eras, noting similarities in approach or temperament.
Nobilo joined CBS full-time in 2020 after working part-time since 2015. His player evaluations often incorporate statistical analysis while remaining accessible to casual golf fans.
Personal Achievements
Frank Nobilo established himself as one of New Zealand’s greatest golfers through an impressive career spanning over two decades, while also making significant contributions to his homeland’s sporting legacy.
Golfing Career Highlights
Nobilo amassed an impressive 14 professional wins during his playing days, showcasing his talent across multiple tours worldwide. His most notable PGA Tour victory came at the 1997 Greater Greensboro Chrysler Classic, where he defeated Brad Faxon in a playoff.
The New Zealander enjoyed his peak during the mid-1990s with several strong performances, including the 1996 Reschs Pilsner New South Wales PGA Championship. His consistent play earned him respect among his peers and fans alike.
Notable Tournament Victories:
- 1997 Greater Greensboro Chrysler Classic (PGA Tour)
- 1993 Dunhill Cup (Team Event)
- 1985 New Zealand Open
Nobilo’s playing career spanned 24 years before he stepped away in 2002 due to injuries.
National Contributions
As one of New Zealand’s sporting icons, Nobilo proudly represented his country throughout his career. His success helped put New Zealand on the global golfing map alongside fellow countrymen like Michael Campbell.
Nobilo’s influence extended beyond his playing achievements. He served as an ambassador for golf in New Zealand, inspiring a new generation of players from a country more traditionally associated with Rugby Union and Rugby League.
His transition to broadcasting with CBS has further enhanced New Zealand’s presence in international golf media. Nobilo brings his wealth of experience and distinctive Kiwi perspective to millions of viewers worldwide.
In a nation where rugby often dominates headlines, Nobilo’s accomplishments provided vital visibility for golf, helping diversify New Zealand’s sporting reputation on the global stage.
Influence and Impact
Frank Nobilo’s presence at CBS has reshaped golf broadcasting through his analytical approach and distinctive New Zealand perspective. His influence extends beyond his own commentary to the development of new broadcasting talent.
Industry Mentors and Colleagues
Nobilo’s journey at CBS has been marked by notable relationships with broadcasting veterans. After joining the network in 2015, he worked alongside respected figures like Ian Baker-Finch and Peter Oosterhuis, absorbing their approaches while developing his own style.
His collaboration with Dottie Pepper has brought a complementary dynamic to CBS broadcasts. Their contrasting backgrounds—Nobilo’s international tour experience versus Pepper’s LPGA insights—create a well-rounded commentary team.
Recently, Nobilo has been named the new voice of the par-3 16th hole at Augusta, replacing broadcasting legend Verne Lundquist. This prestigious assignment speaks volumes about his standing at the network after just 11 years on the CBS team.
Rising Analysts
Nobilo’s mentorship of newer broadcasting talent has become a hallmark of his CBS tenure. He’s taken Trevor Immelman under his wing, helping the former Masters champion navigate the transition from player to analyst.
His influence on Mark Immelman’s broadcasting approach is evident in the latter’s technical breakdowns that mirror Nobilo’s precise analytical style. Their shared international perspective has broadened CBS’s appeal to global audiences.
Nobilo frequently collaborates with Andrew Catalon on coverage of preliminary rounds, where his patient explanation of course strategy has provided a template for developing broadcasters.
While Brad Faxon and Greg Norman represented different broadcasting approaches during his early years, Nobilo forged his own path combining technical expertise with accessible explanations—a balance now emulated by CBS’s newest analysts.
Media Presence
Frank Nobilo has established himself as one of golf’s most recognizable broadcasting voices across multiple platforms. His distinctive New Zealand accent and insightful commentary have made him a fixture in golf media circles since transitioning from his playing career.
Television and Online Platforms
Nobilo joined CBS Sports as an analyst in 2015. He’s become an integral part of their golf coverage team. His role has steadily grown at the network. It culminated in his recent appointment to replace the legendary Verne Lundquist at the iconic 16th hole at Augusta for the 2025 Masters Tournament.
Prior to CBS, Nobilo established his broadcasting credentials at Golf Channel. There, he provided analysis for numerous tournaments. His commentary style combines technical insight with player perspective, drawing from his own experiences on tour.
Nobilo’s broadcasting achievements:
| Network | Role | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|
| CBS | Lead Analyst | Masters, PGA Championship |
| Golf Channel | Studio Analyst | Live From coverage |
Social Media and Publications
Despite his television prominence, Nobilo maintains a relatively modest social media presence compared to some colleagues. He occasionally provides tournament insights through CBS Sports digital platforms rather than personal accounts.
His analysis has been featured in major golf publications, with Getty Images frequently capturing his on-camera moments during broadcasts. Nobilo’s reputation for fair, insightful commentary has made him a respected voice in golf journalism.
Throughout his media career, Nobilo has drawn on his experiences as a seven-time international tournament winner. His credibility is enhanced by his own playing achievements, including being named Player of the Year in his native New Zealand.
Beyond Golf
Frank Nobilo’s life extends well beyond the fairways and broadcast booths of professional golf. His diverse background and commitment to giving back have shaped him into more than just a voice describing the action on CBS broadcasts.
Cultural Heritage
Frank Nobilo proudly embraces his New Zealand roots at every opportunity. He was born and raised in Auckland. Nobilo’s distinctive Kiwi accent has become a familiar sound to golf viewers across America. This cultural background gives him a unique perspective among golf analysts.
His heritage occasionally surfaces in his commentary, where he draws comparisons between courses in the States and those found in his homeland. While Nobilo has adapted to American life during his CBS tenure, he maintains strong connections to New Zealand.
Nobilo has been known to mention his Italian ancestry as well, creating an interesting cultural blend that shapes his worldview both on and off camera.
Charitable Involvement
Nobilo’s philanthropy work reflects his commitment to community service. He has participated in numerous charity golf events that raise funds for various causes across the country.
His involvement extends to youth golf development programs, particularly those focused on providing opportunities to underprivileged children. Nobilo has worked alongside fellow golf analyst Scott Brown on initiatives that bring the sport to communities that might otherwise lack access.
Nobilo has maintained connections with Columbus State in Georgia, participating in fundraising efforts for their athletics programs. His charitable work tends to focus on education and youth development rather than simply lending his name to causes.
The CBS analyst typically avoids publicity for his philanthropy work, preferring to make a difference without fanfare or public recognition.
Legacy and Influence
Frank Nobilo’s impact on golf broadcasting extends far beyond his accent. His transition from successful player to respected analyst has cemented his place in sports media history.
As a CBS golf analyst since 2015, Nobilo brings a wealth of playing experience to his commentary. The New Zealander joined CBS full-time in 2019 after working at Golf Channel alongside Brandel Chamblee.
In a significant career milestone, Nobilo was recently named to replace broadcasting legend Verne Lundquist as the voice of the 16th hole at Augusta National for The Masters. This prestigious assignment marks his 11th year with the CBS broadcast team.
Nobilo’s analytical approach draws from his experiences as a three-time Presidents Cup player and multi-tour winner. His insights on the technical aspects of golf connect with both casual viewers and serious players.
| Nobilo’s Broadcasting Career | Details |
|---|---|
| CBS Sports | 2015-Present |
| Golf Channel | Prior to 2019 |
| Masters Assignment | 16th Hole (2025) |
| Broadcasting Style | Technical, Strategic |
Nobilo has also contributed significantly to discussions about golf’s evolution during his career. His ability to analyze changes in equipment, technique, and strategy gives viewers historical context for today’s game.
As one of few New Zealanders in prominent American sports broadcasting, Nobilo’s success has opened doors for international voices in golf commentary.
