Frank Urban “Fuzzy” Zoeller Jr., one of golf’s most charismatic figures and a two‑time major champion, has died at age 74. The PGA Tour and USGA confirmed his passing on Thursday. No cause of death has been disclosed.
Zoeller, born in New Albany, Indiana, turned professional in 1973 and quickly became known for his humor and easygoing personality, which endeared him to fans and fellow players. His breakthrough came in 1979 when he won the Masters Tournament in his very first appearance. Zoeller's outstanding performance made him only the third (and, to date, last) golfer in history to achieve that feat, following Horton Smith in 1934 and Gene Sarazen in 1935. Zoeller triumphed in a sudden‑death playoff against Tom Watson and Ed Sneed, punctuating the victory with his trademark flair.
Five years later, Zoeller captured the 1984 U.S. Open at Winged Foot, defeating Greg Norman in an 18‑hole playoff. That victory cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s great competitors. In total, Zoeller recorded 10 PGA Tour wins and added two titles on the PGA Tour Champions.
...Beyond his major championships, Zoeller was recognized with the Bob Jones Award in 1985, the USGA’s highest honor, for distinguished sportsmanship. He remains the last player to win the Masters on his first attempt, a record that has stood for more than four decades.
The golf world quickly began reacting to this sad news. PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan called him "a true original whose talent and charisma left an indelible mark on the game of golf." Meanwhile, two-time major champion John Daly called him "the best friend and father figure." US president Donald Trump called him "a highly respected and beloved professional."
The PGA Tour, USGA, and US Open social media accounts posted farewell messages to the legendary player.
Zoeller’s legacy is defined by his rare combination of competitive excellence and showmanship. His victories at the Augusta National and Winged Foot remain iconic moments in golf history, and his record as a Masters debut champion continues to highlight his place among the sport’s legends.
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