New York, NY – After serving as the distinctive voice of the New York Yankees for over three decades, John Sterling has officially announced his retirement. The news of Sterling’s decision to step away from the radio booth was revealed by The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand on Monday, with the 85-year-old broadcaster’s retirement taking immediate effect.
Sterling, known for his personalized home run calls and signature sign-off of “Theeeeeee Yankees win,” expressed his gratitude and excitement for the next chapter in his life following the announcement. Having called 5,060 consecutive Yankees games from 1989 until 2019, Sterling leaves behind a legacy of dedication and passion for the game.
In an exclusive interview, Sterling shared insights into his decision-making process, revealing his desire to have more freedom and flexibility to enjoy life outside of broadcasting. Despite his love for the game, Sterling expressed eagerness to watch and listen to baseball games as a fan, emphasizing his plans to follow not only the Yankees but also the Mets and other MLB teams.
While recognizing the outpouring of support from Yankees fans on social media, Sterling conveyed his appreciation for the love and admiration he has received throughout his career. With a unique broadcasting style and a knack for capturing the excitement of the game, Sterling’s presence in the broadcast booth will surely be missed by fans and colleagues alike.
Prior to his tenure with the Yankees, Sterling’s broadcasting career included stints with the Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks, New Jersey Nets, and New York Islanders. Despite retiring from his role as the voice of the Yankees, Sterling’s impact on the world of sports broadcasting remains a lasting part of his remarkable legacy.