The sports world lost a legend late Sunday night, when it was announced that golf legend Arnold Palmer passed away. Since Palmer’s passing, a number of important figures have come forward to remember the all-time great.
One of those people who released a statement about the life of Palmer was sitting president Barack Obama, who remembered Palmer for his hard work and legendary swagger before his time.
You can read the full statement from President Obama below:
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 (@POTUS44) September 26, 2016
With his homemade swing and homespun charm, Arnold Palmer had swagger before we had a name for it. From a humble start working at the local club in his beloved Latrobe, Pennsylvania, to a superstardom as the face of golf around the globe, Arnold was the American Dream come to life.
Along the way he racked up win and after win – but it wasn’t his success that made him King. Arnold’s freewheeling fearless approach to the game inspired a generation of golfers and, for the first time on TV, enthralled an audience across the world. Sure, we liked that he won seven majors, but we loved that he went for it when he probably should have laid up.
That spirit extended beyond the links where he gave freely of himself and poured everything he had into everything he did: from building hospitals to personally responding to countless letters from his fans. And he did it all with a grin that hinted maybe he had one more shot up his sleeve.
Today, Michelle and I stand with Arnie’s Army in saluting the King.
Rest in peace, Arnold Palmer. You will be missed.
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Photo Credit: NBC Sports
