One of the biggest names in professional golf, Fuzzy Zoeller was a two-time major champion. He went in peace, having accomplished much, at the age of 74. Born Frank Urban Zoeller Jr. in New Albany, Indiana, he became the first player to win The Masters in 1979. With this victory, Zoeller was the first player in more than forty years to win the Masters on his initial try. After a dramatic three-man playoff at Augusta National Golf Club, he captured the most prestigious award in all of sports — the green jacket. This triumph propelled his rise to a famed career that included eight additional PGA Tour victories and two victories on the PGA Tour Champions.
Zoeller’s path to stardom started when he became a professional in 1973. His notable achievements included triumphing at the U.S. Open in 1984, where he outlasted Greg Norman in an 18-hole playoff at Winged Foot. He closed out the win by sticking his second shot on the par-5 14th within six feet. That set him up to roll in the winning birdie on the second playoff hole. With this victory, he would ensure his place atop the list of golf’s best.
In the decade-plus after those big victories, Zoeller was easily one of the most popular people in the sport. He was seen teeing it up on the PNC Championship almost every year with his daughter Gretchen, showing his family man personality. Zoeller is survived by his three children, including Gretchen, who loved that their dad would spend some time with them on the golf course.
Zoeller’s life was not all roses and lily pads. In a 2008 interview with Golf Digest, he reflected on a past incident that caused him significant personal turmoil, stating it was “the worst thing I’ve gone through in my entire life.” He later expressed remorse for hurtful comments made earlier in his career, acknowledging that he felt the pain he had inflicted on others: “If people wanted me to feel the same hurt I projected on others, I’m here to tell you they got their way.”
Beyond his golf accomplishments, Zoeller went on to be recognized for his folksy demeanor and sense of humor. He was often quoted for light-hearted remarks, including one where he praised a young golfer’s performance: “That little boy is driving well and he’s putting well.” He faced criticism for a controversial comment made regarding the Masters’ champion’s dinner, which he described with racial undertones. This dismissal proved to be a heavy albatross around his neck for the rest of his life and career.
Zoeller’s death prompted remembrances from all corners of the sports world. Even former U.S. President Donald Trump paid tribute to Zoeller’s legacy on Truth Social. He specifically remembered the positive influence Zoeller was, both on and off the course.
His impact on the great game of golf reached far beyond his own accomplishments as he influenced generations of golfers with his unmatched ability and magnetic personality. Over the course of his career, he captured two PGA Tour Champions victories, one of which was a highly-coveted Senior PGA Championship.