With the passing of Fuzzy Zoeller at age 74, consideration has returned to one of the controversial moments of his profession — a comment he made about fellow golfer Tiger Woods following Woods’ historic 1997 Masters win. The remark prompted widespread criticism on the time and has remained a big a part of Zoeller’s public legacy.
Though Zoeller later apologized, the incident continued to forged a shadow over his profession and reignited dialogue about race and respect inside skilled golf. Under, we revisit what he stated, how he responded, and whether or not Woods ever publicly addressed the scenario.
What Did Fuzzy Zoeller Say About Tiger Woods?
After the then-21-year-old Tiger Woods received his first Masters Match in 1997, Zoeller made an on-air comment that drew widespread backlash. Throughout a tv interview, Zoeller stated Woods ought to “not serve fried rooster” on the annual Champions Dinner.
“That little boy is driving nicely and he’s placing nicely. He’s doing all the things it takes to win,” Zoeller stated. “So when he will get in right here, you pat him on the again, say congratulations, and luxuriate in it — and inform him to not serve fried rooster subsequent 12 months.” He then added with a smile, “Or collard greens, or regardless of the hell they serve.”
The remark was extensively criticized on the time for counting on racial stereotypes and overshadowed what had in any other case been a historic and celebratory second in Woods’ profession.
Did Fuzzy Zoeller Apologize to Tiger Woods?
Sure. Zoeller apologized shortly after the feedback turned public. He issued a press release acknowledging that his comment was incorrect and expressed remorse for the offense he induced. Through the years, the feedback continued to hang-out him. Per AP Information, in a 2008 reflection, Zoeller known as the episode “the worst factor I’ve gone via in my total life,” saying he had apologized “numerous instances” and that he had “cried many instances.”
“I’ve apologized numerous instances for phrases stated in jest that simply aren’t a mirrored image of who I’m. I’ve a whole bunch of associates, together with individuals of coloration, who will attest to that.” He added, “Nonetheless, I’ve come to phrases with the truth that this incident won’t ever, ever go away.”
Has Tiger Woods Ever Responded to Fuzzy Zoeller’s Remark?
Woods did deal with the incident publicly, stating he didn’t consider Zoeller’s remarks had been pushed by “private animosity.” Nonetheless, he made it clear that he was not prepared to completely forgive or overlook the assertion on the time, per Reuters.
