Golf legend Frank “Fuzzy” Zoeller, known for his two major victories and colourful personality, has died at the age of 74. The United States Golf Association and PGA Tour confirmed his passing on November 27, 2025, marking the end of a career defined by both triumph and controversy.
Zoeller won the Masters Tournament in 1979 on his debut and claimed the U.S. Open in 1984, amassing 10 PGA Tour wins and two senior titles throughout his career.
Zoeller’s legacy, however, was marred by a racially insensitive joke he made about Tiger Woods during the 1997 Masters. The comment drew widespread backlash, led to the loss of sponsorship deals, and cast a long shadow over his later years. Zoeller expressed deep regret for his remarks, calling the fallout “the worst thing I’ve experienced in my entire life” and acknowledging the pain he caused. Despite efforts to move past the incident, the controversy remained a defining part of his public image.
Zoeller was widely admired for his competitive spirit and relaxed demeanour on the course, often whistling between shots. He was a fan favourite and received the USGA’s Bob Jones Award for sportsmanship in 1985. Beyond his playing career, he designed 19 golf courses and was active in various golf-related ventures.
His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the golf community, with PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan calling Zoeller “an original whose charisma left an indelible mark on the game.” Zoeller is survived by his three children.
While the exact cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, reports suggest it may have been due to a sudden heart attack.
