Iconic La Liga Voice Ray Hudson Hangs Up the Microphone After Legendary Career
Ray Hudson, the broadcaster who transformed American soccer commentary into his own theatrical, passionate and lyrical stage, has announced his retirement at the age of 70.
Following a distinguished 23-year broadcasting journey with GolTV, beIN Sports and CBS Sports, along with hosting soccer programming on SiriusXM, the dynamic Hudson has chosen to hang up his headset.
"Very sad; today I retire from CBS Sports and SiriusXM," Hudson posted on X. "Thank you all for sharing so many magesteeerial memories, wherein the beautiful game and players, beguiled and bewildered us. Sincere thanks to everyone I worked with; you inspired me."
"To everyone out there, I love you and I'll miss you."
The Gateshead, England-born commentator first arrived in America during his playing career in 1977, joining the North American Soccer League on loan from Newcastle United. Hudson would complete his playing days in the United States before transitioning to management during MLS's formative years.
He later moved into the commentary box, where he established himself as a legendary voice through his passionate and animated approach built on sharp wit and extraordinary references, metaphors and comparisons. A distinctive style that remains utterly unique.
Hudson crafted his most memorable moments while covering La Liga for beIN Sports. Throughout the golden era of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Hudson delivered the narration for two of football's all-time greats.
Some of his most memorable quotes include:
While Messi was Hudson's preferred subject, he approached every match with a fresh perspective, ready to articulate through words the feelings of a sport he clearly experienced, understood and cherished with such intensity.
The 2024–25 Champions League semifinals featuring Barcelona and Inter Milan marked Hudson's final commentary assignment. It's appropriate that one of European football's most thrilling semifinal encounters serves as his closing performance.
Thus concludes the journey of a commentary legend. Undoubtedly, a truly magisterial career.