Arnold Palmer
“The King” of golf
Arnold Palmer was a legendary American golfer who, with his charisma and skill, was instrumental in transforming the sport, bringing it to a wider, worldwide audience.
I never heard Jack Nicklaus say, ‘I’m a great player’, or Tiger Woods, as a matter of fact. They just get out and do it. And I think that’s far more appealing... than talking about how good you are.
Arnold Palmer
Magnetic figure on and off the course
Arnold Palmer, often referred to as “The King”, was a pivotal figure in the world of golf, known for his magnetic personality and illustrious career.
A winner of seven major championships and more than 60 PGA TOUR® titles, Palmer’s influence extended beyond his achievements on the course. His approachable demeanour and dedication to golf made him a beloved ambassador for the game, inspiring generations of players and fans alike. Palmer’s contributions to the sport are celebrated worldwide, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest golfers in history.
Golfing legend
Arnold Palmer’s remarkable journey began in Pennsylvania, where he honed his skills while working on a nine-hole golf course managed by his father.
His talent propelled him to impressive success, winning seven majors, including four at the Masters Tournament (1958, 1960, 1962, 1964), two at The Open (1961, 1962) and one at the U.S. Open (1960). He amassed 62 PGA TOUR® victories and 10 triumphs on the PGA TOUR® Champions – including five Senior majors – as part of a tally of 92 professional titles worldwide. His aggressive playing style and charm captivated audiences, earning him a devoted fan base known as “Arnie’s Army”. Palmer played a pivotal role in popularizing golf on television, broadening the sport’s appeal globally. His business acumen led to successful ventures in course design, aviation and the founding of the Golf Channel.
Palmer’s philanthropic efforts, continued today by the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation, have raised significant support for charitable causes. His profound impact on golf and society at large is reflected in the numerous accolades bestowed upon him, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2004) and the Congressional Gold Medal (2009).
Palmer’s golfing legacy lives on through the Arnold Palmer Invitational – one of the most prestigious events on the PGA TOUR®, taking place every March at the Bay Hill Club and Lodge – and the Arnold Palmer Cup, an annual team competition contested by the best men’s and women’s university golfers from the United States and the rest of the world. It is due, in part, to him that Rolex is synonymous with golf. The brand’s enduring relationship with the game began in 1967 with Palmer, joined by Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. Known together as The Big Three, these legendary players changed the face of the game forever, and their partnership with Rolex marked the beginnings of an association based on the shared commitment to excellence and teamwork.