Long Live the King…It’s Arnold Palmer Week

by Jeff Skinner

It is Arnie’s week on the PGA Tour as The King hosts the Arnold Palmer Invitational at his own Bay Hill Club and Lodge.  Few athletes have the staying power of Arnold Palmer.  He was loved as a player with his swashbuckling style, wild follow through and appreciation for the fans like no other.

Now, 40 years after his last victory he has spent those decades as the most worshiped and beloved figure in the game.  Jack Nicklaus may have the respect as the greatest player in the game but Arnold Palmer is easily the most loved.

It’s a gift that Palmer has nurtured all his life, his ability to connect with fans, players and sponsors on such a deep and heartfelt level.  Consider this, Palmer sits third on the Golf Digest 50 Money List with over $40 million in earning last season, all from off course deals.  He has more endorsement deals than any golfer.  That’s staying power.  This week it’s Arnie’s World…and we are all just living in it.

Click here for slideshow of Arnie and many of his past magazine ads as he posed with models and starlets.

Here is a slideshow of Arnie’s greatest wins.

Click here for a heads up on the Golf Channel’s original production on Palmer.  “Arnie” which will air on three consecutive nights following The Masters is billed as the definitive film covering the life and legacy of Arnold Palmer.  This one looks really good.

Click here for a short video of Arnie commenting on some of his favorite photos and memories.

Click here for a collection of the Sports Illustrated covers that featured The King.   

And click here for Golf Week’s slideshow of Arnie through the years.