The annual Arnold Palmer Invitational kicks off this weekend, but without its eponymous hero. The late Arnold Palmer passed away on 25th September, 2016 at the age of 87, but his works both on and off the course have been fondly remembered. The ‘King’ was a trailblazer in his era and retained a loyal fanbase, who leave no stone unturned in their idol’s worship. Recently, a report suggested that his career earnings, with a view on inflation, would have touched $1.5 billion, which is more than Tiger Woods’ dividends across his career.

Arnold Palmer’s on-field earnings revised

The celebrated golfer played a massive role in popularizing golf across continents in the 50s and in the 60s. In a career spanning more than 15 years, Palmer secured 95 golf titles, including 62 on the PGA Tour. He was arguably the best player of his generation, but the legend’s career earnings reveal a harsh truth.

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Despite breaking new grounds for golf, Palmer received just $1.86 million as career earnings. To put it in context, the prize money for this year’s Arnold Palmer event is set at $3.6 million, which is higher than the legend’s total earnings.

The figure also puts Palmer above golf’s highest-earning player, Tiger Woods. The 15-time major championship has been the torch-bearer of the sport for years and is widely considered the most recognized face in the game. His performances are backed up by the numbers – Woods has won 82 PGA Tour events and has earned a mind-boggling $1.2 billion.

Fans clash over Arnold Palmer’s inflated earnings

The figure makes Woods the only-ever billionaire player in the sport through career earnings. But Palmer’s figure draws further attention, which sparked debates among the pair’s fans on social media.

Some fans backed up Woods on the matter, claiming the 47-year-old’s revised earnings would also be higher. “Tiger is over 2 bill adjusted,” a fan said. “So what are tigers $10 billion?” said another.

However, others were sympathetic to Palmer’s legacy and had kind words for the legendary golfer. “The LIV effect. It’ll end when LIV ends. Who cares……his legacy is what matters. His foundation. His hospital for children. His kindness and love for this great game,” one user said. “But it’s not about the money, it’s about the legacy,” another one said.

Do you think the inflated figures of past golfers play a role in determining the player’s legacy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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