Arnold Palmer, one of the greatest golfers ever, has passed away at the age of 87. Golfweek reported that a “source close to the family confirmed” that Palmer had died Sunday.
The legendary golfer from Latrobe, Pennsylvania amassed 62 PGA Tour wins, including seven majors and four Masters titles in his incredible 52 year career. But he will mostly be remembered for what he has done to grow the sport.
Arnold Palmer did more for the sport of golf than anyone before or since. Not only was Palmer one of the best to ever play, he was one of the most popular golfers on the PGA Tour during and in retirement. With his friendly and approachable personality, “Arnie’s Army” became one of the biggest fan groups in sports, much less golf. Many of his fans ranged from avid golfers all the way to those who may have never even played the sport. And even if you had no clue that Arnold Palmer was a golfer, you may at least recognize the name as the well known drink mixing lemonade and iced tea that is named after him.
Even though Palmer had been in semi-retirement since the mid-90’s and retiring from competitive golf in 2006, Palmer stayed busy running the Bay Hill Golf Club in Florida and made annual appearances at The Masters. Palmer played in the Par 3 Competition and shared Honorary Starter duties with Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player where the three of them hit a ceremonial tee shot to kick off the tournament. This year, Palmer retired from being an Honorary Starter, claiming physical limitations. Palmer was in attendance as Nicklaus and Player took their shots.
Arnold Palmer was one of the greatest to ever play the game and nobody may surpass him. On and off the golf course, Arnold Palmer was a gentleman as well as a champion and he will be missed.
[Golfweek]
