Golf legend Fuzzy Zoeller dead at 74—President Trump, John Daly pay tribute

Frank Urban “Fuzzy” Zoeller Jr., a two-time major winner and one of the most recognizable personalities in professional golf, has died at age 74. The PGA Tour and USGA confirmed his death on Thursday. A cause was not released.

Zoeller turned professional in 1973 and built a long career marked by steady play and a relaxed on-course demeanor that made him a fixture with fans and competitors.

His most significant breakthrough came in 1979, when he won the Masters Tournament in his first appearance, defeating Tom Watson and Ed Sneed in a sudden-death playoff. He remains the last golfer to win the Masters on debut.

Tributes came in quickly following the announcement. PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said Zoeller was “a true original whose talent and charisma left an indelible mark on the game of golf.” Two-time major champion John Daly described him as “a best friend and father figure,” while President Donald Trump called him “a highly respected and beloved professional.”

 

"Very sad to hear that the highly respected and beloved Professional Golfer, Fuzzy Zoeller, has passed away," Trump said in his post. "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!"

The PGA Tour, USGA, and US Open, and The Masters accounts also released statements acknowledging his death.

Zoeller won his second major in 1984 at the US Open at Winged Foot, defeating Greg Norman in an 18-hole playoff. He finished his career with 10 PGA Tour victories and later added two wins on the PGA Tour Champions. The USGA awarded him the Bob Jones Award in 1985, its highest honor for sportsmanship.

Zoeller was an early victim of cancel culture. Late in his career, he made remarks about Tiger Woods during the 1997 Masters Champions Dinner. At the time, Zoeller was asked about the young champion choosing the menu for the next year’s Champions Dinner. He replied: “Tell him to pick something nice… like fried chicken.” He then said, “Or collard greens or whatever the hell they serve.”  Zoeller apologized repeatedly for the comments, which drew national attention.