The Open 2015: Peter Alliss provokes second sexism row after saying winner Zach Johnson's wife will buy 'new kitchen' with prize money

It was the 84-year-old's second on-air gaffe within 24 hours

James Orr
Tuesday 21 July 2015 12:29 BST
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BBC commentator Peter Alliss has provoked another sexism row after making his second on-air gaffe within 24 hours at the Open at St Andrews, this time saying that the winner Zach Johnson's wife will want to use the prize money on a new kitchen.

As the camera panned towards Kim Johnson moments before the American landed his winning putt to secure the Claret Jug after winning a three-way play-off, the 84-year-old Alliss said about how she would spent the prize money: "She is probably thinking - 'if this goes in I get a new kitchen'."

The BBC has since apologised, with a spokesperson saying today: “Peter made a light hearted comment which was inappropriate and we apologise if anyone was offended.”

Just one day earlier, Alliss had incited outrage on Twitter while commentating on Irish amateur Paul Dunne being hugged by his mother as he exited the course with a share of the lead after three rounds, saying: "Ah, that must be mum. Perhaps he likes older women. I don't know but I hope I got the right one."

Alliss, known for his deadpan delivery, is no stranger to controversy. Back in April, in an interview with the Radio Times, he was asked about St Andrews allowing female members for the first time in its 260-year history.

The veteran commentator said the legislation granting women equality on the golf course had “buggered up” the game because female players cannot afford the fees

Lesley-Ann Wade, the manager of British golfer-turned-commentator Nick Faldo, commented on Twitter during the Open:

It was the 39-year-old Johnson's second major, he had also won the Masters in 2007.

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