Tributes to a legend:

Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, John Daly and other golfers react to Arnold Palmer’s death at age 87.

Reaction to golf great Arnold Palmer’s death Sunday at age 87 in Pittsburgh:

“At this point I don’t know what happened, and I suppose it is not important what happened. What is important is that we just lost one of the incredible people in the game of golf and in all of sports. My friend— many people’s friend— just wore out. I know he was in Pittsburgh trying to find out how to make himself better. That’s what Arnold has always tried to do. He has always been a fighter and he never gave up on anything. He didn’t give up even now. Maybe his body did, but I know Arnold’s will and spirit did not.

“I wish I had another chance to talk to him, but I am so glad we talked a couple weeks ago on his birthday (Sept. 10), when he sounded great. So Barbara and I are just in shock and incredibly saddened. Our hearts, thoughts, prayers and sympathies go out to Kit, his kids, grandkids, great grandkids, and his entire loving family.

“He was one of my best friends, closest friends, and he was for a long, long time. I will miss him greatly.

“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. Along the way, he had millions of adoring fans — Barbara and I among them. We were great competitors, who loved competing against each other, but we were always great friends along the way. Arnold always had my back, and I had his. We were always there for each other. That never changed. “He was the king of our sport and always will be.” — Jack Nicklaus.

*** “It’s hard to believe that Arnold has passed, and I’m deeply saddened by his loss. He meant so much to the game and to me personally. I knew that I could always call him for advice, and I looked forward to seeing him at Bay Hill and the Masters. Arnold touched so many people. My kids were born at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, and his philanthropic work will be remembered along with his accomplishments in golf. It was an honor and privilege to have known Arnold, and I’m forever grateful for his friendship.”

— Tiger Woods.

*** “Legends never die … you will live on forever Arnie … I will never forget the bear hug in front of the clubhouse at Augusta, to watching you hit your final tee shot there, and to spending time with you in the locker room at Bay Hill … thank you for being you and giving me the opportunity to do what I get to do every day! I Love you as did everyone. RIP The KING!!”

— Rickie Fowler.

*** “The Legends of all Legends in the game of golf! RIP my friend, always loved u and always will! God Bless my Friend! — John Daly.

*** “I’m one of the fortunate folks to have spent time with the King. Incredibly blessed to have known him.” — David Duval. *** “We have lost a great friend and giant in our sport tonight. — PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem.

More coverage

Arnold Palmer expanded golf’s popularity. Pages 1A, 1B