Fuzzy Zoeller, a two-time major winner, has died at the age of 74.
Zoeller, born Frank Urban Zoeller Jr, captured the Masters title in 1979, and remains the last player to have won the tournament on their first attempt and also went onto claim a second major triumph at the 1984 U.S. Open title at Winged Foot.
The American rounded out his professional career culminating in 10 PGA TOUR titles as well as two more on the PGA TOUR Champions circuit.
Zoeller was however subject to controversy in 1997 which affected his public popularity as he was embroiled in a racism incident involving Tiger Woods.
Following Woods’ triumph at the Masters, Zoeller: “You pat him on the back and say congratulations and enjoy it and tell him not to serve fried chicken next year.
“Got it? Or collard greens or whatever the hell they serve.”
He later issued an apology for his comments and explained in a 1998 Golf Digest article, “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 colour, who will attest to that. Still, I’ve come to terms with the fact that this incident will never, ever go away.”
President Donald Trump paid tribute to Zoeller on his Truth Social platform calling him “a truly remarkable person and player.”
PGA TOUR commissioner Jay Monahan also paid respects saying: “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 humour that endeared him to fans and fellow players alike. We celebrate his remarkable legacy and extend our deepest condolences to his family.”