PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE KING

“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 honour and privilege to have known Arnold, and I’m forever grateful for his friendship.”

— Tiger Woods.

“Barbara and I mourn The King, Arnie, the people’s champion. He brought golf to millions by his daring and caring. We miss him already.”

— George H.W. Bush.

“The world has lost an original, a sports legend, a true gentleman, and a generous and compassionate human being. I have lost a friend. ... I first learned of Arnold Palmer from my father. He was a member of “Arnie’s Army.” He didn’t even play golf — and he loved ‘The King.”’

— Condoleezza Rice.

“I’m heartbroken tonight. Arnold Palmer defined what it is be a professional inside and outside the ropes. All of golf says ‘thanks Arnold.”’

— Peter Jacobsen.

“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! #AP”

— 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, his friends at Augusta National Golf Club, will always love him.”

— Billy Payne, chairman of Augusta National Golf Club.