Winningest Japanese golf professional in history, Masashi “Jumbo” Ozaki, has passed away at the age of 78.
According to reports in his native Japan, Ozaki died on December 23, 2025, following a battle with colorectal cancer. His passing marks the end of an influential career in Japanese golf history.
For decades, Ozaki set the standard for Japanese professional golf. His performance, longevity, and star power combined in a way few athletes in the country’s sporting history have achieved. Known universally by his nickname “Jumbo,” Ozaki transcended the sport of golf.
Jumbo’s Career
Ozaki’s competitive resume in Japan remains unmatched. Competing on the Japan Golf Tour Organization (JGTO), he secured a staggering 94 career victories, the most in tour history. His first professional win came in 1973, where he remained a fixture on leaderboards for nearly three decades. He competed at a high level until 2002, when he was 55 years old.
During his prime, Ozaki was a consistent presence in golf conversations. He spent more than 200 weeks inside the top 10 of the Official World Golf Ranking. He reached a career-high ranking of No. 5. His international achievements included a spot on the 1996 Presidents Cup International Team. He also represented Japan at the World Cup of Golf in 1974 and 1988.
Although Ozaki proved he could compete with the best, he chose to largely focus his career in Japan. He was the first Japanese golfer to record a top-10 finish at the Masters, an achievement that helped popularize the game in Japan. He also finished tied for fourth at the 1993 Memorial Tournament, one of the PGA Tour’s more prestigious events. Despite the success, Ozaki made just 96 career starts on the PGA Tour, instead choosing to dedicate himself to growing the sport at home.
“My only regret is not playing more outside of Japan,” said Ozaki. “But I dedicated my life to Japanese golf and am extremely grateful the voters thought I was worthy of this honor.”
That dedication was formally recognized in 2011, when Ozaki was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the most important figures the game has ever produced in Asia.
Baseball to Golf to Music
Ozaki committed to a professional golf career at the age of 23, but his athletic journey began with baseball. A standout high school pitcher, he led his team to victory at the 1964 Senbatsu High School Baseball Tournament. He later played professionally for three years with the Nishitetsu Lions, serving as both a pitcher and an outfielder.
Thanks to his powerful swing, Ozaki was dubbed the “Babe Ruth” of Japan. Once he began his golfing career, fans switched their comparisons to Arnold Palmer, thanks to his colorful wardrobe, charm, and skill on the course.
Never one to limit himself to a single pursuit, Ozaki later found success in music, topping Japan’s charts in the 1980s with three hit singles as both a singer and guitarist.
Masashi “Jumbo” Ozaki leaves behind a legacy built on excellence, individuality, and a commitment to Japanese golf. His achievements will continue to define the sport for generations to come.
Winningest Japanese Golfer in History “Jumbo” Dies at 78