Japanese golf icon Masashi ‘Jumbo’ Ozaki has died at the age of 78.The World Golf Hall of Famer passed away following a courageous battle with colon cancer, the Japan Golf Tour confirmed on Wednesday.The Tour released a poignant statement describing him as a ‘one-of-a-kind figure’ who would remain ‘indispensable’ to the history of the game.
‘He is an indispensable, one-of-a-kind figure in discussing men’s golf, both now and in the future,’ the tour shared in a social media tribute.Ozaki’s dominance was legendary, racking up a staggering 94 wins on the Japan Golf Tour over nearly three decades.He is often credited as the pioneer who transformed golf into a national obsession in Japan, through his raw power and flamboyant style on the course.