United States golfer Arnold Palmer passed away at the age of 87 in Pittsburgh on 25 September. He was being treated at the UPMC Presbyterian Hospital for heart ailments.
Known as "the King" of golf, Palmer won a lot of fans with his charisma, skill and down-to-earth attitude. His ardent fans, who were called as the "Arnie's Army", followed the American passionately wherever he went.
Born to a greenskeeper in 1929, Palmer took to the sport at the age of four. He decided to try his luck in professional golf in 1954 after winning the United States Golf Association Amatuer Championship. He went on to win seven major championships, including four Masters titles.
Backed by the Arnie's Army, Palmer became the first most followed figure in the television age. Such was the craze that a drink made of lemonade and iced tea was named after him.
Palmer also became the first golfer to have a career earning of $1m when he reached the figure in 1967. He was also known for his involvement in charity and was an avid pilot and a golf course designer.
Tributes poured in for the Presidential Medal of Freedom-winner on Sunday. IBTimes Singapore has compiled a few reactions after the golfing great breathed his last.
I just got the news at about 8:45 that Arnold had passed. I was shocked to hear that we lost a great friend (continued) pic.twitter.com/skehUsQgww
— Jack Nicklaus (@jacknicklaus) September 26, 2016
So sad to hear Mr. Palmer has passed away. He touched us all and was an incredible role model. The KING.
— Jason Day (@JDayGolf) September 26, 2016
Thanks Arnold for your friendship, counsel and a lot of laughs. Your philanthropy and humility are part of your legend.
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) September 26, 2016
(2/2) It’s hard to imagine golf without you or anyone more important to the game than the King.
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) September 26, 2016
Here's to The King who was as extraordinary on the links as he was generous to others. Thanks for the memories, Arnold. pic.twitter.com/UlyfpIBOL2
— President Obama (@POTUS) September 26, 2016
The tribute has begun: #ArnoldPalmer pic.twitter.com/b51GQLdXsY
— Damon Bruce (@DamonBruce) September 26, 2016
Gone but not forgotten #arnoldpalmer. Your legacies on and off the course transcend sport & time; they will live on forever #RIPTheKing pic.twitter.com/vbRHEwoLrA
— Kevin Anderson (@kevinanderson18) September 26, 2016
A legend and champion for the ages, #ArnoldPalmer was one of the greatest golfers in the world and an even better human being. #RIP pic.twitter.com/XQtqcxHCag
— Rev Jesse Jackson Sr (@RevJJackson) September 26, 2016
Saddened to hear of the passing of #ArnoldPalmer a man who brought golf to the people and made us all part of Arnie's Army
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) September 26, 2016
Simply put, there has never been an athlete like #arnoldpalmer He played w/ power, personality & excellence. He was also a GREAT guy!
— Scott Hamilton (@ScottHamilton84) September 26, 2016
Rest. pic.twitter.com/xAqL0o3jgO
Vale #ArnoldPalmer, a true legend. His charismatic leadership changed the world of professional sport and the business of sport
— Australian Open (@AustralianOpen) September 26, 2016
I'll be mixing lemonade and iced tea tonight in your honor, Arnie. Thank you for everything. RIP #ArnoldPalmer
— Aaron Levine (@AaronQ13Fox) September 26, 2016
Some stars inspire individuals to follow in their footsteps... others inspire a generation #ArnoldPalmer
— Dan Walker (@mrdanwalker) September 26, 2016