Golf Reacts to Passing of Arnold Palmer

Golf is trying to digest the sad news that Arnold Palmer - the seven-time major champion and icon - has passed away at the age of 87. His legacy within the game and out it would be almost impossible to fully comprehend, but it can be seen through the tributes and comments made by the greats of today and the past. For them, he will forever be the King.

Jack Nicklaus was the man who displaced Palmer as the world's greatest player in the 1960s, with their battles on the course inspiring millions to watch. Despite being rivals, there was a connection and respect that only grew stronger with team, and the 18-time major champion reflected on his special relationship with golf's most universally beloved figure.

Alongside Palmer, Tiger Woods has been the game's most transformative player, attracting interest from the wider sporting world that few have achieved. An eight-time winner of the annual Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, the 14-time major champion was among the first to react to the legend's death.

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

That generosity was seen through the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, which had saved and touched the lives of thousands, including the greatest female player of the modern era, Annika Sorenstam, whose two children were born at the facility, with her son Will requiring significant care and attention after being born premature.

No, no, no...Sad day for golf. We miss you. Thank you for everything. The King forever #RIP https://t.co/B8MEmxgBcE

— Annika Sorenstam (@ANNIKA59) September 26, 2016

Rory McIlroy, who brilliantly won the FedEx Cup shortly before Palmer's death was confirmed, paid his own tribute to the four-time Masters champion, who would have undoubtedly been impressed by the Northern Irishman's swashbuckling and aggressive play at East Lake.

Remembering the special times I spent with Mr Palmer at Bay Hill. A true pioneer for our sport. Forever remembered. pic.twitter.com/qJQBpDWTWv

— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) September 26, 2016

Europe's Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke, who walked alongside Palmer ahead of last year's Open at St. Andrews during the Champions' Challenge, was quick to comment on the sad news.

Very sad to hear the news that Arnold Palmer passed away tonight. #RIPTheKing #Legend

— Darren Clarke (@DarrenClarke60) September 26, 2016

Paul Lawrie, who is one of the vice-captains at Hazeltine, also paid tribute to the King, sharing a photo that is sure to be cherished by the Scot. 

Very sad to hear of the passing of The King Mr Palmer , golf was lucky to have you RIP pic.twitter.com/24ay7yUmU4

— Paul Lawrie (@PaulLawriegolf) September 26, 2016

Jordan Spieth, the winner of last year's Masters Tournament, was fortunate enough to share a locker with Palmer at Augusta National. The young Texan was swift in declaring his pride at that enduring connection he will have with a man who defined the season's first major each spring. 

It's an honor to be a lockermate with you at ANGC. You inspired millions, changed the game, and will forever be missed. #arnie

— Jordan Spieth (@JordanSpieth) September 26, 2016

The PGA Tour, on which Arnold Palmer triumphed 62 times during his storied career, paid their own tribute in a series of posts that put into context exactly how the game viewed the 87-year-old.

Thank you, Mr. Palmer. Rest in peace. #ArniesArmyhttps://t.co/XvpvUl6u71 pic.twitter.com/1WQTuZbet7

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) September 26, 2016

The game's greatest ambassador.#ArniesArmy pic.twitter.com/My7asw8Ny8

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) September 26, 2016

“It was an honor and privilege to have known Arnold, and I'm forever grateful for his friendship." -Tiger Woods#ArniesArmy pic.twitter.com/7csh1edr5p

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) September 26, 2016

"He was one of my best friends, closest friends, and was for a long, long time. I will miss him greatly." -Jack Nicklaus#ArniesArmy pic.twitter.com/s7X73sChPu

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) September 26, 2016

He also touched the heart of presidents, with Barack Obama, a keen golfer himself, paying tribute to an American icon.

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

When he came over to Britain in 1960, Arnold Palmer transformed the Open Championship and helped to restore its greatness, bringing attention and encouraging fellow Americans to make the trip across each July. When he returned for one final time last year, walking the fairways of the enduring Old Course, it was a poingant but fitting farewell to the game's oldest major.

Thank you, Arnie. #TheKing pic.twitter.com/KrZEj5SlXN

— The Open (@TheOpen) September 26, 2016

In a released statement, R&A Chief Executive Martin Slumbers put it best. "It is with great sadness that we have awoken to hear the news of Arnold Palmer's passing. He was a true gentleman, one of the greatest ever to play the game and a truly iconic figure in sport.

"His contribution to The Open Championship was, and remains, immeasurable. He will be missed and forever remembered by all at The R&A and throughout the world of golf as a charismatic and global champion of our game."

Like St. Andrews, Arnold Palmer, the King, will be with us for centuries to come.