what they say

“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.” Jack Nicklaus, longtime friend and rival

“Thanks Arnold for your friendship, counsel and a lot of laughs. Your philanthropy and humility are part of your legend. It’s hard to imagine golf without you.” Tiger Woods, former world No 1

“So sad to hear Mr Palmer has passed away. He touched us all and was an incredible role model.” Jason Day, world No 1

“He obviously meant so much not only to the PGA Tour, but to the entirety of golf by lifting it to newfound visibility and popularity. It is not an exaggeration to say there would be no modern day PGA Tour without Arnold Palmer.” Tim Finchem, PGA Tour commissioner

“If it wasn’t for Arnold Palmer we wouldn’t be playing for the obscene amounts of money we play for every week. What he has been able to do for the game, the players, I think everyone realizes that, respects that, I think that is why you see so many guys go to play (the Arnold Palmer Invitational) every year because they want to pay their respects to the man.” Rory McIlroy, four-time major champion

“When Arnold came over in the 60s and wins two in a row, that I believe saved the (British) Open championship, or globalized it as you call it now.” Nick Faldo, British six-time major champion

“Tonight our country lost a great sportsman, a great American. As we approach the Ryder Cup this week, our team will keep Mr. Palmer’s family in our prayers and will draw from his strength and determination to inspire us.” Davis Love III, US Ryder Cup captain