Remembering golfer and sponsorship pioneer Arnold Palmer

The athlete brought golf to the masses, inspiring many to pick up the sport—and showing other stars how to work with organizations via endorsements.

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There was an Arnold Palmer reference tonight on The Simpsons. So weird. pic.twitter.com/4obYfm2B5T

— Kirk Nawrotzky (@KirkNawrotzky) September 26, 2016

The golfing great known as “The King” died Sunday after struggling with heart problems. Palmer was 87 years old.

He won seven majors in his career—which included clinching the British Open in 1961 and 1962—and racked up 62 PGA Tour victories.

He’s also recognized for bringing golf to the masses. CNN reported that the “now billion-dollar industry worldwide” happened “in large part because of [Palmer’s] legacy.”

Athletes, politicians, golfing organizations and more shared tributes on Twitter:

Thanks Arnold for your friendship, counsel and a lot of laughs. Your philanthropy and humility are part of your legend.

— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) September 26, 2016

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