Two-Time Major Winner Fuzzy Zoeller Dies at 74

Fuzzy Zoeller, a two-time major champion known for his gregarious personality on the PGA Tour, died Thursday at age 74. The death was first reported by local media in Louisville, Kentucky, near his home in New Albany, Indiana, and confirmed by the Associated Press. A cause of death has not been disclosed.

Zoeller's passing marks the end of a career filled with triumphs and a lasting controversy that overshadowed his later years. He secured his place in golf history with victories at the 1979 Masters and the 1984 U.S. Open. At Augusta National in 1979, Zoeller became the last player to win the Masters on his debut appearance, edging out Tom Watson and Ed Sneed in a sudden-death playoff. Five years later, at Winged Foot Golf Club, he captured the U.S. Open by defeating Greg Norman in an 18-hole playoff the day after dramatically waving a white towel from the 18th fairway, under the mistaken belief that Norman had sunk a crucial putt to win.

Over his professional tenure, Zoeller notched 10 victories on the PGA Tour, though chronic back problems limited his play in later years. He also claimed two titles on the PGA Tour Champions circuit for players aged 50 and older. His final...