Golfer Fuzzy Zoeller, Two-Time Main Champion, Lifeless At 74

Fuzzy Zoeller, a 2x main champ whose huge persona and distinctive shot-making had been later overshadowed by a racially insensitive comment about Tiger Woods, has died at 74.

Zoeller gained 10 PGA Tour occasions throughout his time on tour, together with the 1979 Masters, which he gained his first time enjoying the event at Augusta Nationwide, a outstanding feat.

He additionally gained the 1984 U.S. Open, beating Greg Norman and Hale Irwin in a brutal 18-hole playoff.

As nice a golfer as he was — and Fuzzy was a heck of a shot maker with elite really feel across the greens — he was identified simply as a lot for his fast wit and playful persona.

“Fuzzy was a true original whose talent and charisma left an indelible mark on the game of golf. Fuzzy combined competitive excellence with a sense of humor that endeared him to fans and fellow players alike,” PGA Tour commish Jay Monahan mentioned.

“We celebrate his remarkable legacy and extend our deepest condolences to his family.”

Zoeller’s quips did not at all times land … and one thing he mentioned about Tiger many years in the past adopted him round for the remainder of his life.

On the 1997 Masters, Woods, enjoying within the tourney for the primary time as a professional, blew away the sphere. Fuzzy was requested by CNN concerning the 21-year-old’s dominant play.

“That little boy is driving well and he’s putting well. He’s doing everything it takes to win. So, you know what you guys do when he gets in here? You pat him on the back and say congratulations and enjoy it and tell him not serve fried chicken next year. Got it?,” Zoeller mentioned, referring to the Champions Dinner, the place the reigning champ chooses the menu.

The “joke” haunted Fuzzy, who obtained many loss of life threats over time.

In 2008, he opened up concerning the incident with Golf Digest.

“If people wanted me to feel the same hurt I projected on others, I’m here to tell you they got their way. 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.”

“Nonetheless, I’ve come to phrases with the truth that this incident won’t ever, ever go away.”

Regardless of the sophisticated legacy, Zoeller was beloved by numerous golf followers worldwide, together with the president of the USA, Donald Trump, who reacted to his passing.

“Very unhappy to listen to that the extremely revered and beloved Skilled Golfer, Fuzzy Zoeller, has handed away, POTUS mentioned earlier than highlighting a number of of Fuzzy’s prime achievements on the golf course.