Masashi “Jumbo” Ozaki, Japan’s most prolific golfer with 113 worldwide victories, passed away Wednesday at 78 after battling colon cancer. The Japan Golf Tour hailed him as “an indispensable, one-of-a-kind figure in men’s golf.” Ozaki dominated Japan’s tour, winning 94 times over 29 years, including his last victory at the 2002 ANA Open aged 55. He peaked at No. 5 in world rankings in 1996 (age 49).
Though overlooked internationally, Ozaki was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011, receiving 50% of the international ballot vote. His major highlights include a T-6 finish at the 1989 U.S. Open and 19 Masters appearances. Ozaki won Japan Open (5) and Japan PGA Championship (6) titles, topping money lists 12 times.
A charismatic figure dubbed Japan’s Arnold Palmer, Ozaki blended style (silk shirts, baggy pants) with power. He played guitar, charting three Japanese pop songs. Former baseball pitcher, he linked golf to pitching, advising protégé Ryo Ishikawa: “Jumbo wanted me to hit far.” Brothers Naomichi (Joe) and Tateo (Jet) also played tour.
Ozaki’s regret: “Not playing more outside Japan,” but “I dedicated my life to Japanese golf.” He played 1996 Presidents Cup, beating Couples/Love III with Vijay Singh.
