Fuzzy Zoeller secured victory at the 1979 Masters Tournament over Tom Watson and Ed Sneed in a playoff, earning the prestigious Green Jacket.
Two-time major champion Fuzzy Zoeller has passed away at the age of 74.
Frank Urban Zoeller Jr., as he was born, triumphed at the 1979 Masters in a playoff, becoming the first player since 1935, and the last to date, to win the tournament in his debut appearance.
In 1984, he also emerged victorious in a playoff against Greg Norman to claim the US Open title at Winged Foot.
However, Zoeller faced controversy in 1997 following remarks he made regarding Tiger Woods.
After Woods’ Masters victory, which granted him the privilege of selecting the following year’s Champions Dinner menu, Zoeller commented: “You pat him on the back and say congratulations and enjoy it and tell him not to serve fried chicken next year.
“Got it? Or collard greens or whatever the hell they serve.”
Zoeller later issued an apology, stating that his words had been misinterpreted.
“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,” he wrote for Golf Digest in 1998.
“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 also achieved 10 victories on the PGA Tour throughout his career.
“Fuzzy was a true original whose talent and charisma left an indelible mark on the game of golf,” stated PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan.
“Fuzzy combined competitive excellence with a sense of humour that endeared him to fans and fellow players alike. We celebrate his remarkable legacy and extend our deepest condolences to his family.”