Arnold Palmer brought a country-club sport to the masses with a hard-charging style, charisma and a commoner's touch, At ease with both presidents and the golfing public, and on a first-name basis with both, ''The King,'' died Sunday in Pittsburgh. He was 87.
Alastair Johnson, CEO of Arnold Palmer Enterprises, confirmed that Palmer died Sunday afternoon of complications from heart problems. Johnson said Palmer was admitted to the hospital Thursday for some cardiovascular work and weakened over the last few days.
Palmer ranked among the most important figures in golf history, and it went well beyond his seven major championships and 62 PGA Tour wins.