Twice major champion Fuzzy Zoeller dies aged 74

Fuzzy Zoeller, a two-time major champion who faced a backlash for a racist joke he made about Tiger Woods at the 1997 Masters, has died at the age of 74, the PGA Tour said on Thursday.

Zoeller, the last golfer to win the Masters at his first attempt after prevailing in a three-man playoff in 1979, was a gallery favourite during his playing days due to his humour and relaxed approach to the game. He went on to win a second major at the 1984 U.S. Open where he beat Greg Norman in a playoff at Winged Foot.

He finished his career with 10 PGA Tour wins and two titles on the PGA Tour Champions.

"Fuzzy was a true original whose talent and charisma left an indelible mark on the game of golf," PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan said in a statement. "Fuzzy combined competitive excellence with a sense of humor that endeared him to fans and fellow players alike. We celebrate his remarkable legacy and extend our deepest condolences to his family."

It was at the 1997 Masters where Zoeller made his infamous remarks about Woods.

While Woods was on the course in the final round en route to a 12-stroke victory at Augusta National Golf Club for his first major title, Zoeller made racist remarks about what Woods might serve at the following year's Champions Dinner.

Zoeller told reporters: "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 to serve fried chicken next year. Got it."

The Champions Dinner, where the defending Masters champion chooses the menu, is traditionally held on Tuesday at Augusta National, two days before the opening round.

Zoeller was walking away from the assembled media scrum when he suddenly turned back and added: "Or collard greens, or whatever the