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Renowned golfer Masashi Ozaki has passed away at the age of 78.
The Japanese Hall of Famer succumbed to colon cancer after a courageous battle.
Jumbo Ozaki, photographed in 2013, has passed away after battling colon cancerCredit: AFP
Ozaki was adored by fans and was inducted into golf’s Hall of FameCredit: AP
The heartbreaking news was announced by the Japan Golf Tour on Wednesday.
A statement read: “Mr. Ozaki, affectionately known as ‘Jumbo’, passed away at 3:21 p.m. on December 23 due to colon cancer.
“He was an irreplaceable, extraordinary figure in men's golf, both in the present and for the future.
“Rest in peace.”
Throughout his impressive career spanning over three decades, Ozaki became a legend, achieving an astonishing 94 victories on the Japan Golf Tour.
Nicknamed Jumbo for his powerful drives, the dynamic and flamboyant star is credited with igniting a renewed passion for golf in Japan.
Although he never clinched a Major championship, Ozaki participated in an impressive 49 of them, with his best finish being a tie for sixth at the 1989 US Open at Oak Hill.
Upon his induction into the Golf Hall of Fame in 2011, the modest star expressed: “I dedicated my life to Japanese golf.
“I am deeply grateful that the voters deemed me worthy of this honor.”
Interestingly, golf was not the first sport in which Ozaki turned professional.
He was a baseball star in his home country until the age of 23, serving as a pitcher for the Nishitetsu Lions after leading his high school team to the national championship.
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FAQ
What caused Masashi Ozaki's death?
Masashi Ozaki passed away due to complications from colon cancer.
How many wins did Masashi Ozaki have on the Japan Golf Tour?
Ozaki achieved an impressive total of 94 victories on the Japan Golf Tour.
Was Masashi Ozaki ever inducted into any hall of fame?
Yes, he was inducted into the Golf Hall of Fame in 2011.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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