Davis Love III believes the memory of Arnold Palmer can inspire Team USA to heroic Ryder Cup win

DAVIS LOVE says his Ryder Cup team will be inspired by the memory of Arnold Palmer.

‘The King’ died yesterday following heart failure at the age of 87.

It left the golfing world mourning the man who helped make the game a global spectacle.

As the USA and Europe prepare to square up in the third biggest sporting extravaganza on the planet — only the Olympics and the football World Cup draw bigger TV audiences than the Ryder Cup — Love said his players were determined to give Palmer a fitting send-off.

The USA captain believes the outpouring of emotion will work in his team’s favour  — just as the death of Seve Ballesteros from brain cancer four years ago provided the motivation for  Europe’s Miracle at Medinah.

Love said: “Our country has lost a great sportsman and a great American.

“As we approach the Ryder Cup this week, our team will keep Mr Palmer’s family in our prayers and we will draw from his strength and determination to inspire us.

“When I think of Arnold Palmer, I think of his natural ability to relate to people, the close bond he had with his father, and how when I first came on Tour, he made young professionals like me feel welcome.

“He leaves an impact on the game and on sports in America that is unmatched.”

Palmer was hugely admired and respected throughout the game, and five-time Major champion Phil Mickelson — who is about to play his 11th successive Ryder Cup — added his own moving tribute.

Mickelson, 46, said: “I’ve respected a number of players who came before me but Arnold Palmer was my model, on and off the course.

“I’m saddened by his death but I’m a better player, and perhaps a better person, thanks to his example.”