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Arnold Palmer retires at 77

14/10/2006

Legendary golfer Arnold palmer has announced his retirement from competitive golf.

The 77-year-old made the statement after he was forced to pull out of the first round of a Champions Tour event because of a bad back.

"I think this is it," he said, holding back the tears. "I'll play some father-son events, some charity events, and that's about it. Right now, there's just no thought of any more tournament golf."

Palmer has won four Masters, two opens and one US Open in what has been a distinguished career.

He turned professional in 1955 and had won his first Masters in just three years.

"I've been doing this a long, long time," said Palmer. "First of all, to stand out there and not be able to make something happen is very traumatic in my mind.

"When the people all want to see a good shot and you know it, and you can't give them that good shot - that's when it's time.

"I may stop playing now, start exercising and get in shape and see if I can at least enjoy the simple golf that I always like to play.

"It's emotional for me because it's my life," he added.

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