Arnold Palmer

Arnold Palmer, often hailed as "The King" of golf, was one of the most charismatic and influential figures in the sport's history. Born on September 10, 1929, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Palmer began playing golf at a young age under the tutelage of his father, a greenskeeper. His competitive spirit and natural talent quickly emerged as he won five West Penn Amateur Championships as a teenager.

Palmer attended Wake Forest University, where he refined his skills, and after a stint in the U.S. Coast Guard, he returned to golf and turned professional in 1954. His breakthrough came in 1958 with his first Masters Tournament win, setting off a period of dominance that included seven major championships, four of them Masters titles. His aggressive, “go-for-broke” playing style combined with his approachable personality made him a fan favorite and helped popularize golf globally in the 1960s.

Throughout his career, Palmer won 92 tournaments worldwide, including 62 PGA Tour events, and was a pivotal member of six Ryder Cup teams, serving as playing captain in 1963. Beyond his playing days, he became a successful businessman, founding the Arnold Palmer Design Company, which has crafted over 300 courses in 25 countries. His influence extended internationally, including pioneering efforts to bring golf to China.

Palmer’s legacy also includes philanthropic ventures such as the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, Florida. Recognized with numerous awards, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1974 and received the PGA Tour Lifetime Achievement Award.

Arnold Palmer passed away on September 25, 2016, leaving an indelible mark on golf and beyond.