The golf world is mourning the loss of Fuzzy Zoeller, the two-time major champion who passed away at age 74. The American golfer, whose career was both celebrated for his ten PGA Tour victories and haunted by racist comments he made about Tiger Woods, died on Friday 28th November 2025.
A Remarkable Golf Career
Zoeller enjoyed an impressive professional career that spanned decades. He remains the last golfer to win the Masters at his first attempt, achieving this remarkable feat in 1979 when he prevailed in a three-man playoff. His second major victory came in the 1984 US Open, cementing his status among golf's elite.
Beyond his major successes, Zoeller collected 10 PGA Tour wins throughout his career and added two more titles on the PGA Tour Champions circuit. Known for his larger-than-life personality and relaxed approach to the game, he became a firm favourite among golf galleries.
The Tiger Woods Controversy That Defined His Legacy
Despite his sporting achievements, Zoeller's legacy became inextricably linked to comments he made about Tiger Woods during the 1997 Masters. As Woods was dominating the course en route to a 12-stroke victory at Augusta National Golf Club, Zoeller made remarks about the traditional Champions Dinner to reporters.
He stated: "You know what you guys do when he gets in here? You pat him on the back and say congratulations and enjoy it and tell him not to serve fried chicken next year. Got it." Turning away, he added: "Or collard greens, or whatever the hell they serve."
Fallout and Reconciliation Attempts
The comments triggered immediate backlash and cost Zoeller significantly. Sponsorship deals were cancelled and his reputation suffered a substantial blow. Zoeller later expressed deep regret for his words, telling Golf Digest in 1998: "I've cried many times. I've apologised countless times for words said in jest that just aren't a reflection of who I am."
He acknowledged that the incident would forever shadow his legacy, stating: "I've come to terms with the fact that this incident will never, ever go away." Tiger Woods later indicated that he believed no personal animosity was intended, though the remarks were never forgotten.
Tributes have poured in from across the golf world. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan described Zoeller as "a true original whose talent and charisma left an indelible mark on the game of golf." Even former US President Donald Trump paid tribute, calling Zoeller "highly respected and beloved" in a Truth Social post.
No immediate cause of death has been provided for the golf star, whose complex legacy will be remembered for both his competitive excellence and the controversy that followed him throughout his later years.
