Arnold Palmer was known for his kindness and generosity, which extended beyond the golf course to the personalized letters he would send to players, winners, and even those who didn’t win. These letters, a testament to Palmer’s warm personality, became a cherished tradition that many in the golfing world have come to appreciate. Starting his letter-writing tradition in his playing days, Palmer would take time to thank sponsors after each tournament he played. As his career progressed, he expanded this tradition to include personalized notes for tournament winners, friends, and even players who had faced disappointment on the course.
One such recipient of Palmer’s letters was Brandt Snedeker, who received a collection of letters from Palmer over the years. Snedeker, like many others, was moved by the thoughtfulness and personalization of Palmer’s messages, recognizing the time and effort Palmer put into each one. He reflected on the impact of Palmer’s kindness and generosity, realizing that he was just one of many who had received such letters from the legendary golfer. Palmer’s assistant, Doc Giffin, who worked closely with Palmer for over 50 years, recalled how Palmer’s tradition of writing congratulatory notes to tournament winners evolved into a more expansive practice of sending personalized letters to winners on various tours, including the PGA Tour, LPGA, and Korn Ferry Tour.
Even in his later years, Palmer continued to send out letters to golfers who achieved special milestones or faced disappointments on the course. His letters were treasured keepsakes for many, like Nick Carlson, a rising University of Michigan golfer who received a letter from Palmer after his impressive performance at the U.S. Amateur. Jordan Spieth, another recipient of Palmer’s letters, appreciated the personal touch and thoughtfulness behind each message, vowing to frame some of his favorites to display in his home. Palmer’s commitment to sending these letters, even as he battled illness, spoke to his unwavering dedication to the sport and its players.
Palmer’s letters were more than just congratulatory messages; they were a reminder of the camaraderie and sportsmanship that define the game of golf. Players like Paul Broadhurst, who received one of the last letters from Palmer before his passing, cherished these messages as a connection to the golfing legend. Despite never meeting Palmer in person, Broadhurst framed the letter and displayed it prominently in his home, recognizing the significance of the kind words from the King of Golf. Palmer’s legacy lives on not only through his achievements on the course but also through the personal connections he forged with players through his heartfelt letters. The tradition of sending personalized letters may seem like a lost art in today’s digital age, but for those who received a letter from Arnold Palmer, it remains a cherished memory of a true legend of the sport.
