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Deaths Of Notable Sports Figures (R.I.P.)

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Fuzzy Zoeller, 1984 U.S. Open Champion, Dies at 74​

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rank Urban “Fuzzy” Zoeller Jr., who won two major titles in playoffs, including the 1984 U.S. Open, died on Nov. 27 at the age of 74.

"Fuzzy was one of a kind," said USGA CEO Mike Whan. "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."

Born and raised in New Albany, Ind., Zoeller received his nickname thanks to the initials of his first, middle and last names. He later played his collegiate golf at the University of Houston, then a Division I juggernaut, before turning professional in 1973. Six years later he became just the second golfer to win the Masters in his first appearance, following Gene Sarazen who did so in 1935. Then 27, Zoeller was tied with Tom Watson and Ed Sneed after 72 holes.

In the first sudden-death playoff at Augusta National, all three players began with pars on the 10th hole. After Sneed and Watson made par on the second playoff hole, Zoeller faced a 6-foot birdie putt to win the title. He memorably flung his putter high in the air after the ball dropped in the hole. “I’ve never been to heaven, and thinking back on my life, I probably won’t get a chance to go,” Zoeller once said. “I guess winning the Masters is as close as I’m going to get.”

In 1984, the 32-year-old Zoeller was making his eighth U.S. Open appearance when the championship was contested on the iconic West Course of Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, N.Y. After shooting a 1-over par 71 in the first round, Zoeller fired a 66 on Friday, leaving him one stroke behind leader Hale Irwin, winner of the 1974 U.S. Open at Winged Foot. The leaderboard remained the same after Round 3, when Zoeller and Irwin both shot 69. Also shooting 69 on Saturday was Australian Greg Norman, who moved into third place, two strokes behind Irwin and one behind Zoeller.
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R.I.P.
 
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Oh8ch said:
Got to watch Fuzzie in the final round at Muirfield one year. He was last in an odd numbered field so it was just him and a small gallery. Finished in less than 3 hours. Lots of banter. Never enjoyed myself so much at the Memorial.
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How can you not have fun with someone who golfs and goes by Fuzzie? Like my dad's friend who owns a funeral home, and goes by the name "Digger".
 
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