Monday 26 September 2016 14:45, UK
Golfing legend Arnold Palmer was recalled on Sunday by the players he battled and those he inspired following his death.
Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods, stars of a newer generation who admired 'The King', and Palmer's 'Big Three' rivals of the 1960s, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, were among those who paid tribute to the seven-time major champion who died at the age of 87.
American president Barack Obama, who tweeted a photo of a lesson Palmer gave him in the Oval Office of the White House, said: "Here's to the King who was as extraordinary on the links as he was generous to others. Thanks for the memories, Arnold".
McIlroy, after winning the FedExCup title and the $10m bonus jackpot in a dramatic play-off with Dustin Johnson on Sunday night, said: "He has meant so much to golf worldwide.
"Arnold wasn't the most successful player ever but he was the player that brought the game to the masses. If it wasn't for Arnold Palmer, we wouldn't be playing for these obscene amounts of money we play for every week."
Palmer became the first major US sports celebrity endorsement star, the role made for him in the 1960s. He remained a popular pitchman into his 80s, his 'Arnie's Army' fan following unmatched until Woods spawned Tiger-mania in 1997.
Woods said: "Thanks Arnold for your friendship, counsel and a lot of laughs.
"Your philanthropy and humility are part of your legend. It's hard to imagine golf without you or anyone more important to the game than the King."
Nicklaus, who won a record 18 major titles, said: "Arnold transcended the game of golf. He was more than a golfer or even great golfer. He was an icon.
"He was a legend. Arnold was someone who was a pioneer in his sport. He took the game from one level to a higher level, virtually by himself.
"We were great competitors who loved competing against each other, but we were always great friends along the way. He was the king of our sport and always will be."
Palmer, whose biography 'A Life Well Played' is due out in October, had a design firm that built more than 300 golf courses worldwide, as well as having a drink - a combination of iced tea and lemonade - named after him.
"He endeared himself to the people," Player said. "He had charisma. He just fell out of bed with it."
Palmer played 50 Masters in a row before his last in 2004. He had served as a ceremonial starter with Nicklaus and Player in recent years but was too ill to do more than sit and watch the others tee off this year.
"A lot of us knew Arnie hadn't been doing well for a long time," McIlroy added. "He was such a great man. He put on a great face for probably quite a while. I know that he was suffering for a little bit.
"He meant a lot to a lot of people. The world and the game of golf won't be quite the same without him."
Palmer will be celebrated at this week's 41st Ryder Cup matches at Hazeltine where holders Europe are looking for a fourth consecutive win over an American squad now motivated to win for Palmer, who played on six Cup-winning sides.
"As we approach the Ryder Cup this week, our team will keep Mr Palmer's family in our prayers and will draw from his strength and determination to inspire us," US captain Davis Love said.
"I'll miss you friend. RIP the King," tweeted American Rickie Fowler, while US Open champion Dustin Johnson added, "Mr Palmer was truly one of golf's greatest icons. His legacy will live on."
