Fuzzy Zoeller was golf’s foremost racial ambassador and a two-time major champion. Unfortunately, he has now died at the age of 74. Brian Naugle, director of the Insperity Invitational in Houston, where Williams last served as tournament director, confirmed his death. On Friday at midnight, he was dealt some heartbreaking news by Zoeller’s daughter. The golfing community is mourning the loss of a player known for his distinctive personality and memorable moments on the course.
Zoeller made history in 1979, in that year becoming the last player on his first try to win the Masters. He accomplished that incredible historic achievement in a three-man playoff, ensuring his legacy as one of the all-time greats in the game’s history. The moment that lingered and stuck with him most was the ruin of dreams at Winged Foot, 1984. He waved that white towel most famously, believing he’d been beat by bad luck and fellow competitor Greg Norman. Zoeller did prevail over Norman in an 18-hole playoff the next day, furthering his legacy.
Despite these successes, Zoeller’s career was ultimately marred by a racially insensitive joke he told following Tiger Woods’ Masters victory. During a press conference, he remarked, “So, 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 serve fried chicken next year. Got it?” This comment drew significant criticism and marred his reputation, although many of his friends and colleagues, including people of color, have attested to his character beyond this incident.
Zoeller’s larger than life personality made an impact on and off the golf course. Self-taught, Williams was most talented for his approachable theatrics and friendliness with even the most curt of players. During a live CNN town hall interview, CNN viewers were stunned at how casually and thoroughly he tackled complex questions about his deeply controversial past. He showed an impressive openness to criticism and self-examination.
Throughout his life, Zoeller made wide-ranging friendships in the world of golf. Into his late 90s, he created relationships that crossed racial and cultural lines. As it has been said many times over, his contributions to the sport will be recognized in history alongside both his accomplishments and failures.
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