45 Facts About Arnold Palmer

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Arnold Palmer, known as "The King," was a legendary golfer whose journey began in a small town. His early years were filled with lessons that shaped his future success.

1. Arnold Palmer was the oldest of four children, born to Deacon and Doris Palmer in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. His father worked as a greenskeeper at the Latrobe Country Club, where young Arnold learned the game.

2. Despite the Great Depression, the Palmer family instilled strong values and a committed work ethic in Arnold, which would guide him throughout his life.

3. Palmer's natural talent for golf was evident early on. By age nine, he was shooting 45 over nine holes, using hand-me-down clubs.

High School and College Years

Palmer's early successes in high school and college set the stage for his future achievements in golf.

4. He won the Pennsylvania state high-school golf championship twice, showcasing his skills and determination.

5. Palmer attended Wake Forest University on a golf scholarship, where he won three Southern Conference Championships.

6. His college career was cut short in 1950 when his best friend and teammate, Bud Worsham, died in a car accident. This tragedy led Palmer to leave college and join the U.S. Coast Guard.

Military Service and Return to Golf

Palmer's time in the U.S. Coast Guard was marked by dedication and a continued passion for golf.

7. During his service, he built a nine-hole course at Cape May, New Jersey, between the base’s runways.

8. After three years, he finished his service in Cleveland, Ohio, and returned to golf, working as a paint company representative while restoring his game.

9. Palmer's hard work paid off when he won the U.S. Amateur Championship at the Country Club of Detroit in 1954.

Rise to Fame and Professional Achievements

Palmer's professional career was filled with victories and milestones that earned him a place among golf's greats.

10. His first professional victory came at the 1955 Canadian Open, where he won with a score of 265, the second lowest in the tournament's history.

11. In 1958, Palmer won his first Masters Tournament, marking the beginning of his rise to fame.

12. His charismatic personality and aggressive playing style earned him the nickname "The King."

13. Palmer's fan base, known as "Arnie’s Army," followed him worldwide, making him one of the most beloved figures in golf.

14. In 1967, he became the first golfer to earn $1 million in career earnings on the PGA Tour.

Major Tournament Wins

Palmer's victories in major tournaments showcased his incredible skill and determination.

15. He won the Masters Tournament four times: in 1958, 1960, 1962, and 1964, each marked by dramatic finishes.

16. In 1960, Palmer won the U.S. Open by making birdies on six of the first seven holes in the final round.

17. He won the British Open twice, in 1961 and 1962, further cementing his status as one of the greatest golfers.

18. Palmer won the Vardon Trophy four times, awarded to the player with the lowest scoring average on the PGA Tour.

Contributions Beyond Golf

Palmer's impact extended beyond the golf course, influencing various aspects of society and the sport itself.

19. He was a member of six Ryder Cup teams and served as the last playing captain in 1963.

20. Palmer's charitable initiatives raised billions for various causes, particularly medical projects.

21. He became one of the first major sports stars to obtain a pilot’s license and set a class record for the fastest flight around the world in 1976.

22. Palmer was instrumental in founding the Golf Channel in 1995, making golf more accessible to a wider audience.

23. In 2004, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.

24. Palmer was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2009, acknowledging his contributions to the nation.

25. He was one of the inaugural 13 members of the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1974.

Personal Life and Legacy

Palmer's personal life and legacy continue to inspire golfers and non-golfers alike.

26. He married Winifred Walzer in 1954, and they had two children. After her passing in 1999, Palmer married Kathleen Gawthrop in 2005.

27. Palmer's legacy in golf extends beyond his on-course achievements, helping to popularize the sport among the middle and working classes.

28. His charisma and playing style made him a compelling figure on television, establishing golf as a popular TV event in the 1950s and 1960s.

29. Palmer earned over $2 million during his career, paving the way for future generations of professional golfers.

30. He won a total of 95 tournaments, including 62 PGA Tour victories, placing him fifth on the PGA Tour's all-time victory list.

31. Palmer joined the Senior PGA Tour in 1980 and continued to compete until his retirement in 2006.

32. He founded a golf-course-design company, creating challenging yet enjoyable courses worldwide.

33. Palmer wrote several books on golf techniques, providing insights into his approach to the game.

34. His charitable work left a lasting impact on society, particularly through medical projects.

35. Palmer's flying skills were well-known, and he enjoyed flying as a hobby.

36. He was instrumental in founding the Golf Channel, further solidifying his influence on the sport.

37. Palmer received numerous presidential honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal.

38. He was one of the inaugural members of the World Golf Hall of Fame.

39. Palmer was named Athlete of the Decade by the Associated Press in 1960.

40. He was Sports Illustrated’s Sportsman of the Year in 1960.

41. Palmer was an astute businessman, serving as president of Arnold Palmer Enterprises.

42. He married Winifred Walzer in 1954, and they had two children. After her passing, he married Kathleen Gawthrop in 2005.

43. Palmer's legacy in golf extends beyond his achievements, helping to popularize the sport.

44. His charisma and playing style made him a compelling figure on television.

45. Arnold Palmer passed away on September 25, 2016, at the age of 87, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.

The Legacy of Arnold Palmer

Arnold Palmer wasn't just a golfer; he was a legend who changed the game forever. Known as "The King," his charisma and skill made golf exciting and accessible to everyone. From his early days in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, to becoming the first golfer to earn $1 million on the PGA Tour, Palmer's journey was nothing short of extraordinary. His four Masters Tournament wins and two British Open victories are just a part of his impressive career. Beyond the greens, Palmer was a savvy businessman and a generous philanthropist, raising billions for charity. His influence extended to founding the Golf Channel and designing golf courses worldwide. Even after his passing in 2016, Palmer's legacy lives on, inspiring golfers and fans alike. His story is a testament to hard work, passion, and the lasting impact one person can have on a sport and its community.