Masashi Ozaki, the legendary Japanese golfer known as ‘Jumbo,’ has died of sigmoid colon cancer at age 78. He was diagnosed with the disease about a year ago, according to the Japan Golf Tour Organization (JGTO).
Masashi Ozaki, affectionately known as ‘Jumbo’ Ozaki, a legendary figure in Japanese golf, died on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, from sigmoid colon cancer, as announced by the Japan Golf Tour Organization (JGTO) on Wednesday. He was 78 years old and had been diagnosed with the illness about a year prior.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ozaki secured victories in 113 tournaments. In 1973, he made history as the first Japanese golfer to finish in the top 10 at the Masters Tournament, placing eighth. He claimed the money title a record 12 times, including an impressive streak of five consecutive years starting in 1994. His contributions to the sport earned him induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011.
According to the JGTO website, “What made him charismatic was the fact that he won four times in which he came back from eight shots behind. He performed miraculously a number of times.” The World Golf Hall of Fame website describes him as “often thought to be to Japanese golf what Arnold Palmer is to American golf,” noting that “his success has spawned an entire generation of Japanese golf professionals, both male and female.”
Ozaki initially pursued baseball, playing for the Seibu Lions from 1965. After three years, he switched to professional golf, where he thrived. His two younger brothers, Tateo and Naomichi, are also professional golfers, known by the nicknames “Jet” and “Joe,” respectively.
A family funeral will be held, with a farewell event planned for the future. Ozaki’s legacy in Japanese golf remains indelible.
