Telegenic Arnold Palmer Brings Golf to Global Stage
Arnold Palmer, known as “the King” for his dominance and legacy in golf, has died at the age of 87. The golf legend died from complications of heart problems.
The sad news was confirmed by Alastair Johnson, chief executive of Arnold Palmer Enterprises, in the Golf Channel which Palmer co-founded.
In a report by NBC, Johnson said Sunday night, “We are deeply saddened by the death of Arnold Palmer, golf’s greatest ambassador, at age 87.”
Palmer made a stellar name by transforming golf from a country club pursuit to a sport that is accessible to the masses, even in a worldwide context.
Reactions From Different People
The sudden death of Arnold Palmer drew varied reactions from social media and prominent people.
Jack Niclaus, his longtime friend and rival, said on his twitter account, “Arnold transcended the game of golf. He was more than a golfer or even great golfer. He was an icon. He was a legend. Arnold was someone who was a pioneer in his sport. He took the game from one level to a higher level, virtually by himself.”
Barack Obama, US president and an avid golfer, tweeted, “Here’s to The King, who was as extraordinary on the links as he was generous to others. Thanks for the memories, Arnold.”
George W. Bush, former US president also paid tribute to the golf legend by saying, “For all who love the game of golf and love to see it played, there has never been a sight quite like Arnold Palmer walking down the fairway toward the 18th green.”
The announcer Vin Scully once said: “In a sport that was high society, Arnold Palmer made it ‘High Noon’.”
Aside from that, Tiger Woods, former world number one, remembered Arnold Palmer for his friendship and philanthropic deeds.
“Thanks Arnold for your friendship, counsel and a lot of laughs. Your philanthropy and humility are part of your legend. It’s hard to imagine golf without you or anyone more important to the game than the King.”
A Big Name in Golf
Palmer made a mark in the history of golf for winning more than 90 golf tournaments. The telegenic golfer also be became the first person to make $1 million playing golf.
The golf legend pursued a rivalry with two great rivals in the “Big Three” Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus, that captivated fans for three decades. This rivalry catapulted the golf to a worldwide stage in the 1960’s.
Aside from his dominance in the sport, Palmer exuded style and charisma that thrilled fans around the world.
Palmer told CNN in 2012, he wanted to be remembered for bringing golf to a worldwide audience.
