Monday 26 September 2016 16:57, UK
Jack Nicklaus has paid tribute to Arnold Palmer, describing him as a great friend, a great competitor and the "king" of golf.
The rivalry between the pair, spanning over half a century on and off the golf course, was one of the fiercest in sport with Nicklaus winning 18 Majors and Palmer seven.
Following the death of Palmer on Sunday, Nicklaus revealed his respect and love for the "king of our sport".
"I was shocked to hear that we lost a great friend, and that golf lost a great friend," Nicklaus said.
"At this point I don't know what happened, and I suppose it is not important what happened. What is important is that we just lost one of the incredible people in the game of golf and in all of sports.
"My friend - many people's friend - just wore out. I know he was in Pittsburgh trying to find out how to make himself better. That's what Arnold has always tried to do.
"He has always been a fighter and he never gave up on anything. He didn't give up even now. Maybe his body did, but I know Arnold's will and spirit did not.
"I wish I had another chance to talk to him, but I am so glad we talked a couple weeks ago on his birthday [September 10] when he sounded great. So Barbara [my wife] and I are just in shock and incredibly saddened.
"Our hearts, thoughts, prayers and sympathies go out to Kit, his kids, grandkids, great grandchildren, and his entire loving family.
"He was one of my best friends, closest friends, and he was for a long, long time. I will miss him greatly.
"Arnold transcended the game of golf. He was more than a golfer or even a 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. Along the way, he had millions of adoring fans -Barbara and I among them. We were great competitors, who loved competing against each other, but we were always great friends along the way.
"Arnold always had my back, and I had his. We were always there for each other. That never changed. He was the king of our sport and always will be."
