Fuzzy Zoeller, PGA legend, dead at 74

Fuzzy Zoeller, who won two majors during his decorated PGA Tour career, died Thursday. He was 74 years old.

Zoeller had 10 wins while on Tour, including The Masters in 1979 – his first attempt. As of 2025, he is the last player to win the event in his first try. Five years later, he won his second major when he defeated Greg Norman at the 1984 U.S. Open after an 18-hole playoff.

“Fuzzy was one of a kind,” said USGA CEO Mike Whan in a statement. “We are grateful for all he gave to golf. I hope we can all remember his unmistakable joy. The USGA is sending our deepest condolences to his family and friends.” 

Zoeller turned professional in 1973 and got his first PGA Tour win in January 1979. He then made his debut at Augusta National that spring, winning The Masters in his first try as he took down Ed Sneed and Tom Watson in a playoff. Zoller became the third player to win The Masters in his debut, joining Horton Smith and Gene Sarazen in the exclusive club.

Fuzzy Zoeller also had a notable moment at the 1984 U.S. Open when he famously waved his white towel, thinking he beat Norman. But the tournament went to a playoff, which he eventually won to secure his second career major.

In 1997, though, Zoeller found himself in the middle of controversy. As Tiger Woods went through a dominant run at The Masters, Zoeller made a joke during an interview on CNN when he said to tell Woods “not to serve fried chicken next year” during his champion’s dinner. In a 2008 interview with Golf Digest, he looked back on the moment and expressed remorse for the impact it had.

“I’ve cried many times,” Zoeller said at the time, via the AP. “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 color, who will attest to that. Still, I’ve come to terms with the fact that this incident will never, ever go away.”