Fuzzy Zoeller, Two-Time Major Winner, Has Died at 74

Frank “Fuzzy” Zoeller Jr., a two-time major champion has died at 74.

Zoeller turned pro in 1973 after a standout amateur career. Over the course of his professional career, he carved out a legacy defined by clutch performances under pressure—and moments of unforgettable flair. With ten PGA TOUR victories to his name, he earned two of golf’s biggest prizes: the Masters Tournament in 1979, winning on his very first try in a sudden-death playoff, making him the first player since the mid-1930s to claim the green jacket on debut. And in 1984 at U.S. Open played at Winged Foot Golf Club, he famously waved a white towel on the final hole, seemingly conceding to competitor Greg Norman, only to regroup, dominate the 18-hole playoff the next day with a 67, and take the title by eight strokes.

When the suits came off and cameras were rolling, Zoeller often reverted to the rough-around-the-edges showman who thrived playing fast, casual golf—like in The Skins Game. As a regular in that made-for-TV, hole-by-hole, cash-on-the-line format, he showed a side of golf that didn’t care for ceremony or restraint. In 1985, he even turned a clutch birdie on the 18th hole into a moment of pure swagger, sinking the putt to win the Skins, then poking fun at a legend with a mock kiss on the cheek of the other player at the table.

In the twilight of his career he also found success on the senior circuit, showing that even as time passed, the competitive fire and irreverent spirit endured.

Zoeller had more than his fair share of controversy, too—most notably a 1997 comment about Tiger Woods that cast a long shadow over Fuzzy Zoeller’s legacy. Undoing the damage would require apologies, a personal meeting with Woods, and even the loss of sponsorship deals.

He is survived by his spouse, four children, and a legion of spectators, players and fans.