Legendary golfer, philanthropist Arnold Palmer dies at 87

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.

Palmer ranked among the most important figures in golf history, and it went well beyond his seven major championships and 62 PGA Tour wins.

His good looks, devilish grin and go-for-broke manner made the elite sport appealing to one and all. And it helped that he arrived about the same time as television moved into most households, a perfect fit that sent golf to unprecedented popularity.

From the archives: Central Florida Spotlight: Golfing legend Arnold Palmer (2014)

Arnold Palmer Enterprises CEO Alastair Johnson confirmed that the golf legend died Sunday of complications from heart problems. Johnson added that Palmer was admitted to the hospital Thursday for some cardiovascular work and weakened over the last few days.

Palmer's playing career included memorable moments at the U.S. Open, where he rallied from seven shots down to win and once blew a seven-stroke lead on the back nine to lose.

Tiger Woods said two years ago that golf wouldn't be as popular as it is now without Palmer. "Thanks Arnold for your friendship, counsel and a lot of laughs," Woods tweeted Sunday night.

Photos: Arnold Palmer through the years

Beyond his golf, Palmer was a pioneer in sports marketing, paving the way for scores of other athletes to reap in millions from endorsements. Some four decades after his last PGA Tour win, he ranked among the highest-earners in golf.

On the golf course, Palmer was an icon not for how often he won, but the way he did it.

A spokesman for Orlando Health, which includes the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, released the following statement late Sunday:

"We are deeply saddened to hear reports that Arnold Palmer has passed away. Mr. Palmer lived an incredible life and accomplished so much on and off the golf course. He built a world-class medical center that has had a tremendous impact on the lives of children and families in this community for more than 27 years. As we wait for an official statement, our thoughts and prayers are with the Palmer family during this difficult time."

Palmer, who celebrated his 87th birthday two weeks ago, was largely associated with his eponymous drink, a combination of iced tea and lemonade.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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