Golf Hall of Famer Masashi 'Jumbo' Ozaki dead at 78 after cancer battle

Published: Wednesday, December 24, 2025 at 4:11 pm

Japanese Golf Legend Masashi "Jumbo" Ozaki Dies at 78

Masashi "Jumbo" Ozaki, a name synonymous with Japanese golf, has passed away at the age of 78 following a battle with colon cancer. Ozaki, widely considered the greatest Japanese golfer of all time, leaves behind a legacy of remarkable achievements and a profound impact on the sport.

Ozaki's career was marked by an impressive tally of 113 tournament victories worldwide, with 94 of those wins coming on the Japan Golf Tour. His dominance and longevity inspired generations of golfers, including 2021 Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama.

Ozaki was a frequent competitor in major championships, participating in 49 overall. He made 19 appearances at the Masters Tournament, with his best finish being a tie for eighth place in 1973. He also achieved a tie for 10th at the 1979 Open Championship and a tie for sixth at the 1989 U.S. Open.

Ozaki's impact extended beyond individual victories. He reached a career-high world ranking of No. 5 in 1996 at the age of 49 and maintained a position within the top 10 for over 200 consecutive weeks. He was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011, solidifying his place among the sport's elite. Ozaki's achievements include five Japan Open titles and six Japan PGA Championship wins. He led the Japan Golf Tour money list a record 12 times, including five consecutive years from 1994 to 1998, and won his final money title in 2002 at the age of 55. He also represented his country in the 1996 Presidents Cup.

BNN's Perspective:

Ozaki's passing is a significant loss for the golfing world. His achievements, particularly his dominance on the Japan Golf Tour, and his influence on younger players, are undeniable. While his success outside of Japan was limited, his impact on the sport within his home country and his longevity at the highest level are testaments to his skill and dedication. His induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of his contributions to the game.

Keywords: Masashi Ozaki, Jumbo Ozaki, Japanese golfer, golf, Japan Golf Tour, Hideki Matsuyama, Masters Tournament, World Golf Hall of Fame, golf legend, sports news, golf champion, Japan Open, Japan PGA Championship, Presidents Cup, colon cancer, golf obituary

Full Story