The golf community received devastating news regarding Masashi “Jumbo” Ozaki this Wednesday.
Ozaki had an incredible run on the Japan Golf Tour, winning 94 tournaments from 1973-2002. That being said, he proved he could hang with the top competitors in the world by recording top-10 finishes at the 1973 Masters, 1979 Open Championship and 1989 U.S. Open. In 2011, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
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“I am very happy, very honored and appreciate everyone who has supported me since I turned pro in 1970,” Ozaki said, via GolfDigest. “My only regret is not playing more outside of Japan, but I dedicated my life to Japanese golf and am extremely grateful the voters thought I was worthy of this honor.”
Unfortunately, Ozaki passed away after a battle with colon cancer. He was 78 years old.
“He is an indispensable, one-of-a-kind figure in discussing men’s golf, both now and in the future,” the Japan Golf Tour said.
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04/14/1995; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Masashi Ozaki and caddie line up putt at the Augusta National Golf Course during the 1995 Masters. Mandatory Credit: File Photo -The Augusta Chronicle via USA TODAY NETWORK© The Augusta Chronicle-USA TODAY NETWORK.
Fans honoring Jumbo’s legacy.
“He was a legend. Loved watching him & his brothers,” one fan commented. “Especially, at The Masters. I bought his Osaka J’s Driver. J’s Professional Weapon. One of the best drivers I ever owned.”
“RIP Jumbo,” a second fan said. “Ozaki was a tremendous ambassador for the game of golf.”
“Man will be remembered as a legend on the course,” another fan wrote.
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“We only basically saw him play in the Masters mainly and sporadically in the other majors. 114 wins during his career. A force on the Japanese Tour for over 25 years,” a social media user added.
Clearly, “Jumbo” won’t be forgotten in the world of sports.
Our thoughts are with Ozaki’s loved ones.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Dec 24, 2025, where it first appeared in the Golf section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
