US golf loses a legend in Arnold Palmer

One of the greatest golf players of the last century and aforementioned “King” of golf, sadly passed away on the 26th September at the UPMC Shadyside Hospital in Pennsylvania, after being admitted for heart tests, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

A great ambassador

Palmer, who in his extensive career won over ninety tournaments throughout the world, inclusive of seven majors, has been described as “golf’s greatest ambassador” by the US Golf Association. He leaves behind his wife, children, stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and thousands of fans who will truly miss a man who really helped to propel the game during the fifties and sixties - the television age.

His charm, personality, good looks, knowledge and spectacular golfing skills won him the hearts of thousands of fans, who proceeded to flock to his tournaments to support him. His golfing game and technique also made him the one all top golf players wanted to be, with many of them, as well as Barack Obama, paying tribute to golf’s original star player.

Not only was he an excellent golfer, he was a true sporting superstar. He had a drink named after him, the Arnold Palmer cocktail, and was one of the first sports stars to gain sponsorship deals - something today’s stars should be thankful for. He was also the first golfer in history to earn $1 million, just from playing golf.

Leaving a legacy

Due to his success on the golf course, he opened his very own private golf course in Bay Hill, Florida, where every March a golfing tournament named after “The King” takes place - the The Arnold Palmer Invitational.

Palmer’s golfing style was daring, attacking, fun and kept watchers on their toes, anticipating his every shot. He could easily adapt to any situation he was in, providing spectators with a fabulous game to watch with no disappointment in sight.

Golf certainly will not be the same without its legendary hero superstar.