Arnold Palmer

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Arnold Palmer (September 10, 1929 – September 25, 2016) was an American professional golfer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most charismatic players in the sport's history. Palmer won numerous events on both the PGA Tour and the Senior PGA Tour, now known as the PGA Tour Champions. He won seven major championships during his career, including four Masters Tournaments, two British Opens, and one U.S. Open.

Early Life

Arnold Palmer was born in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, the son of Deacon Palmer, the golf professional and greenskeeper at the Latrobe Country Club, which allowed young Arnold to learn golf from a very young age. His father's position at the club provided him with the opportunity to hone his skills and develop a deep love for the game.

Career

Palmer's professional career took off in 1955 when he won the Canadian Open, marking his first significant victory. He went on to dominate the sport in the late 1950s and 1960s, a period often referred to as the "Palmer Era." His aggressive play style and charismatic personality helped popularize golf and bring it to a television audience, contributing significantly to the sport's growth in the United States and around the world.

Palmer's most notable achievements include his seven major championships. He won the Masters Tournament in 1958, 1960, 1962, and 1964; the British Open in 1961 and 1962; and the U.S. Open in 1960. He was a member of six Ryder Cup teams and served as the winning captain twice.

Beyond his success on the course, Palmer was a successful businessman, helping to found the Arnold Palmer Design Company, which has designed more than 300 golf courses worldwide. He also played a significant role in the founding of the Golf Channel, the first television network dedicated to the sport of golf.

Legacy

Arnold Palmer's legacy extends beyond his achievements on the golf course. He is credited with popularizing golf, making it accessible to the television audience of the 20th century, and contributing to the sport's growth globally. His approachable personality and genuine love for the game endeared him to fans, earning him the nickname "The King."

Palmer received numerous awards and honors throughout his life, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2004 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2009, making him one of the few athletes to receive both honors.

Death

Arnold Palmer passed away on September 25, 2016, at the age of 87. His death was mourned by the golfing world and beyond, with many paying tribute to his contributions to the sport and his charitable efforts.

See Also

• Golf
• PGA Tour
• Masters Tournament
• The Open Championship
• U.S. Open (golf)