Arnold Palmer, RIP

[Claimjumper]

Reports are coming in that The King has died at 87

Another old guard larger than life white American icon.

I've never been a huge golf fan either watching or playing, but always enjoyed reading about and watching him and Jack

 

[Flint]

 

[Don Wassall]

When I saw The King at The Masters in April I figured he was near the end. He passed on hitting the traditional ceremonial shot with Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player to open the tournament, could barely stand up and had aged at least ten years in the previous twelve months.

He lived a long, full life. He was the last of the great American sports icons from America 1.0. He was the Babe Ruth of his sport as far as the impact he had on it, just a great and unique combination of talent, charisma, humility, and he had the common touch. Everyone loved him and he loved people. He had all the qualities we like our heroes to have.

For those who don't know that much about Arnold Palmer or his impact on golf and society, I recommend watching the three-part documentary the Golf Channel aired on Arnie a couple of years ago. Watch it and marvel. There's never been anyone like him and never will be again.

 

[Jack Lambert]

Rest in Peace Arnie!! One of the legends of sports, and an awesome guy off the course as well. I've watched a lot of his older highlights, and he was easily one of the Top 3 golfers of all time. He was one of the great sportsman, and a great role model for a lot of Americans. He helped get America interested in golf again. I'm sad to see him pass away. He will never be forgotten.

 

[Don Wassall]

The ceremonial opening shot at the 2017 Masters featured this tribute to The King. The words of Billy Payne, chairman of the Augusta National golf club, are poignant and moving. Nick Faldo described the ceremony as "perfect":

 

[Don Wassall]

What a moving eulogy by Jim Nantz. He does an outstanding job of presenting how much Arnold Palmer meant to golf and to so many people and always will, and shows also just how irreplaceable he is as a broadcasting icon. Jim Nantz is peerless and we are very fortunate to have had him for these 30+ years.