Fuzzy Zoeller, the American professional golfer and two‑time major champion, died on November 27, 2025, at the age of 74.
His death
Multiple golf and news organizations reported that Zoeller’s death was confirmed by his family and golf officials, though no specific cause of death was publicly disclosed as of those reports. He died in late November 2025, with statements of condolence issued by the PGA Tour and the USGA noting his impact on the game and his outgoing personality.
Career and legacy
Zoeller was best known for winning the Masters in 1979 and the U.S. Open in 1984, part of a total of 10 PGA Tour victories and additional wins on the senior circuit. He was regarded as a quick‑playing, humorous, and fan‑friendly figure, and received the USGA’s Bob Jones Award for sportsmanship in 1985.
Controversy
His later reputation was marred by a racially insensitive joke he made about Tiger Woods after Woods’ 1997 Masters win, which drew heavy criticism and followed him for the rest of his life. Zoeller apologized repeatedly and later described the incident as the worst experience of his career, saying it led to years of backlash and threats.
