Fuzzy Zoeller dead aged 74 | Golf | Sport
Former Masters and US Open winner Fuzzy Zoeller has died at the age of 74. The American was a two time major champion and a popular figure among fans. The news has seen tributes come in from the world of golf, and further afield – including the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump.
“Very sad to hear that the highly respected and beloved Professional Golfer, Fuzzy Zoeller, has passed away,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “In 1979, Fuzzy won the Masters Tournament (Only 1 of 3 to win in his first appearance!) and, in 1984, he won the U.S. Open at Winged Foot Golf Club, and famously waved the white towel on the 18th Hole as he went on to beat Greg Norman in an 18 Hole playoff. A truly remarkable person and player, he will be missed!
USGA CEO Michael Whan said: “Fuzzy was one of a kind. We are grateful for all he gave to golf. I hope we can all remember his unmistakable joy. The USGA is sending our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
Zoeller bacame a professional golfer in 1973. Six years later in 1979, he became the first player aince 1935 to win The Masters on his debut appearance.
He was awarded the Bob Jones award in 1985. The award is considered one of the higest honours to be given out by the United states Golf Association.
News of his death came with Brian Naugle, tournament director of the Insperity Invitational in Houston confirming that Zoeller’s daughter had called him with the news. The cause of death is not yet known.
Zoeller’s career was marred by a comment on Tiger Woods back in the 1097 Masters. He apologised for the comment, and later spoke about it in the Golf Digest back in 2008. “If people wanted me to feel the same hurt I projected on others, I’m here to tell you they got their way,” he wrote.
“I’ve cried many times. I’ve apologized countless times for words said in jest that just aren’t a reflection of who I am. I have hundreds of friends, including people of color, who will attest to that. Still, I’ve come to terms with the fact that this incident will never, ever go away.”
Zoeller was married to Diane, who died in 2021, and had three children. His daughter Gretchen went on to play in the PNC Championship.
