As each month passes and another win is posted, it is becoming clearer and clearer that Tiger Woods is the greatest golfer of all time. Last week, he became the 3rd winningest golfer in history by posting his 63rd career victory. He did this in his 12th season of competition. The man he passed and the men ahead of him all took 25 years or more to collect their wins. It isn't just the win total either. Woods is considered to be the best clutch performer, most dominant and most intimidating athlete in the world. But, for all of his accomplishments, Tiger Woods will never be known as The King.
That title will always belong to Arnold Palmer, the man Woods just passed on the all time win list. Arnold Palmer is far and away the most popular golfer of all time. Palmer retired years ago. Yet, whenever he makes a public appearance, he is greeted by crowds of fans. What is his secret?
Some say that is was his dramatic style of play - fall way behind, then make bold, daring shots to come back and win. Others say it is his personal magnetism and charisma. Palmer himself says it something much simpler. It is something he learned from his dad:
"My dad taught me to treat everyone I meet like a personal friend." Palmer often says, "I've always tried to do that."
My parents saw Arnold Palmer play in person once, in the late 80's. They will never forget it.
In an era where professional golfers use body guards to keep the fans away from them, Arnold Palmer walked through the crowd alone. On the first day of this tournament in Napa, my mom, along with hundreds of other people, wanted Palmer's autograph. They waited for him at the first hole.
Most players would use their body guards to clear a path through the crowd, avoiding eye contact all the while. They have to stay focused on playing golf, after all. Palmer didn't.
Palmer walked slowly, shaking hands and signing autographs. When he got to my mom, he said hello and asked what she wanted signed. My mom handed him her visor. Before he signed it, he asked my mom's name.
"Vivian", she said.
"Well, Vivian, here you go," Palmer smiled, handing the signed hat back to my mom, "I hope you enjoy the tournament."
He then turned to my dad and said, "You must be the lucky husband. What's your name?"
"Richard," said my dad.
"Richard, it's very nice to meet you." he shook my dad's hand, looked him the eye, smiled, then, as if sharing a private joke, winked, and said. "I'm Arnold Palmer. Enjoy the tournament."
It is this kind of personal touch that makes Arnold Palmer so popular. That is why he will always be The King
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