From a Small Augusta Crowd to Golf’s Biggest Fan Movement: The Rise of ‘Arnie’s Army’

A soldier at the scoreboard, who was filming the moment, caught the essence of it beautifully by proclaiming the appearance of ‘Arnie’s Army.’

The name stuck instantly. A year later, when Palmer won his second Masters title, he made sure to acknowledge them: “I thanked the ‘army’ of supporters who came out to follow me.” Around the same time, The Augusta Chronicle picked up the phrase, and just like that, it became part of golf history.

The phrase “Arnie’s Army” also means the group of people who were Arnold Palmer’s fans. Originally, it was just the people who were Arnie’s fans in Augusta. But as Palmer’s fame grew, the fans were from all over the world.

Not only were the fans supporters of Palmer, but they also showed the connection of the golfer with them deep down. As Palmer once said, “When people ask what’s driven me all these years, I always give the same answer: It’s you.”

A group of soldiers who showed up at the Masters ended up sparking one of the most iconic fan movements golf has ever seen.

Golf’s Biggest Fanbases Today

Arnold Palmer and his famous “Arnie’s Army” are examples of how fans can make a person big, which might not be the case in today’s time. However, the following still exist.

Consider the case of Tiger Woods.

His fans, sometimes affectionately referred to as Tiger’s Legion, are a huge and faithful bunch, particularly when he is making a big comeback. They attend, keep the noise level high, and stay with him no matter what stage of his career he is in.

Then there is Phil Mickelson, who not only appeals to his fans through his skills but also through his personality. A.k.a. “Lefty, ” he attracted a crowd that flourishes on audience engagement and spectacular moment excitement.

Jordan Spieth has a younger disciple, more constant that sprang up from his first majors, that has continued even through his changing fortunes. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy is a well-supported golf player worldwide, especially in Europe and the U.S., where his fans are always with him during his ups and downs.

These aren’t “armies,” but they’re strong, loyal followings in their own way.