Britannica Sources used in this answer

Why did Arnold Palmer become a major star of television-era golf?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Tiger Woods follows through on his golf swing after teeing off, standing in tall grass with spectators watching in the background at St Andrews Golf Links. — golf American golfer Tiger Woods competing at the British Open (Open Championship) at St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland, 2005.

Arnold Palmer became a major star of the television era of golf primarily due to his aggressive playing style, his unorthodox swing, and his ability to win tournaments in dramatic fashion.1

Emerging as a sports superstar in 1960, Palmer captivated audiences by frequently overcoming significant deficits to secure victories, such as his performance at the 1960 U.S. Open, where he birdied six of the first seven holes in the final round to win. His charismatic presence and competitive spirit fostered a massive, devoted following known as "Arnie’s Army," which helped elevate the sport's profile during the rise of televised sports coverage. His high-profile, hard-fought rivalries—most notably with Jack Nicklaus—further cemented his status as the game's most popular player during the 1960s.12