Sadly, Arnold Palmer died on Sunday at age 87 in Pittsburgh. Many notable golfers quickly paid their respects to the “King,” the legend, and the man who transcended the game of golf.
The great Jack Nicklaus reminisced about his competitor and gushed over the PGA icon.
“I just got the news at about 8:45 that Arnold had passed. I was shocked to hear that we lost a great friend–and that golf lost a great friend.
What is important is that we just lost one of the incredible people in the game of golf and in all of sports. My friend — many people’s friend — just wore out. I know he was in Pittsburgh trying to find out how to make himself better. That’s what Arnold has always tried to do. He has always been a fighter and he never gave up on anything. He didn’t give up even now. Maybe his body did, but I know Arnold’s will and spirit did not.
So Barbara and I are just in shock and incredibly saddened. Our hearts, thoughts, prayers and sympathies go out to Kit, his kids, grandkids, great grandchildren, and his entire loving family. He was one of my best friends, closest friends, and he was for a long, long time. I will miss him greatly.
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. Along the way, he had millions of adoring fans–Barbara and I among them. We were great competitors, who loved competing against each other, but we were always great friends along the way. Arnold always had my back, and I had his. We were always there for each other. That never changed.
He was the king of our sport and always will be.”
Nicklaus was crying at the Masters this year when Arnie couldn't hit the ceremonial tee shot. Crying. He knew this day was near.
— Kevin Van Valkenburg (@KVanValkenburg) September 26, 2016
Tiger Woods
Thanks Arnold for your friendship, counsel and a lot of laughs. Your philanthropy and humility are part of your legend.
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) September 26, 2016
(2/2) It’s hard to imagine golf without you or anyone more important to the game than the King.
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) September 26, 2016
Rickie Fowler
I'll miss you friend #ripTheKING pic.twitter.com/KIoz0CH59F
— Rickie Fowler (@RickieFowler) September 26, 2016
Dustin Johnson
Mr. Palmer was truly one of golf's greatest icons. His legacy will live on. #RIPTheKing
— Dustin Johnson (@DJohnsonPGA) September 26, 2016
Bubba Watson
The golfing world lost a legend today. Prayers for the Palmer family! #MrPalmer #TheKing #Weregoingtomissyou
— bubba watson (@bubbawatson) September 26, 2016
Jason Day
So sad to hear Mr. Palmer has passed away. He touched us all and was an incredible role model. The KING.
— Jason Day (@JDayGolf) September 26, 2016
Sergio Garcia
Very sad news to hear of the passing of the great Arnold Palmer. We will miss you very much. The King and Legend. RIP
— Sergio Garcia (@TheSergioGarcia) September 26, 2016
Paige Spiranac
Sad day in golf. RIP to the King. #arnoldpalmer
— Paige Spiranac (@PaigeSpiranac) September 26, 2016
Kyle Thompson
This letter from Arnold Palmer last year will always be one of my greatest treasures. Pure class and he will be missed! #TheKing 🙏 pic.twitter.com/QiNaSiQ47u
— Kyle Thompson (@KyleThompsonPGA) September 26, 2016
President Barack Obama
Here's to The King who was as extraordinary on the links as he was generous to others. Thanks for the memories, Arnold. pic.twitter.com/UlyfpIBOL2
— President Obama (@POTUS44) September 26, 2016
RIP Arnold.