Arnold Palmer passed away and took the essence of true golf with him in 2016. The golf legend’s death came as a shock to millions of fans worldwide. But there was a person who was, well, “crushed” by his friend’s heavenly departure. And it was none other than the legendary golfer, Jack Nicklaus.
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An emotional Jack Nicklaus opened up about his pal Arnold Palmer’s death
Jack Nicklaus is counted as one of the most talented players the world has ever seen on the field. The golf legend has made millions of fans with his performances. Besides leaving a huge impact on Tiger Woods and his career, the 18-time major winner is loved by all his fans.
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WOODLANDS, TX – MAY 04: Jack Nicklaus (L) and Arnold Palmer walk to the third green during the Greats of Golf exhibition at the Insperity Championship at the Woodlands Country Club on May 4, 2013 in Woodlands, Texas. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images)
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But there was a time when the happy-go-lucky golf star was in tears after he learned about Arnold Palmer’s passing. “When I heard the news last night, I just was crushed,” Nicklaus said in his interview with Golf Channel. “I sort of felt part of my life went with it, which it did. He was such a good competitor, good friend and so great for the game of golf. He did so much for all of us.”
Nicklaus’ honest confession about his friendship with Palmer
Palmer and Nicklaus might be known as the greatest rivals in golf’s history by the fans. But inside, the two were very good friends and loved spending time around each other playing golf and chit-chatting. Nicklaus admitted how Palmer was always there for him in times of need. No matter what the world thought about the two, their friendship was unexplainable.
“He was always a friend…I always had his back. He always had my back. He did so much for so many. I’m glad I was one of them.” Nicklaus said. There were several instances when the two got into heated faceoffs during professional tournaments. And fans still remember the 1962 US Open when Nicklaus won his first major championship after a fierce head-to-head with Palmer in an 18-hole playoff.
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However, despite their great competition, Nicklaus had huge respect for Palmer. And his loss was something that felt very personal to the golf star. “I will miss him greatly,” he said.
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