Masashi "Jumbo" Ozaki, the legendary Japanese golfer and World Golf Hall of Fame member, has died at the age of 78. The Japan Golf Tour Organization (JGTO) confirmed that Ozaki passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, after a battle with sigmoid colon cancer, a condition he had been diagnosed with approximately a year prior. A private family funeral will be held, with plans for a public farewell ceremony to be announced later.

Born on January 24, 1947, in Tokushima Prefecture, Ozaki was a towering figure in Japanese sports and is widely credited with popularizing golf in Japan. His imposing physique, powerful drives, and charismatic personality earned him the nickname "Jumbo" and made him a national icon. Often compared to Arnold Palmer for his influence on the sport in Japan, Ozaki's success inspired generations of Japanese golfers.

Before dedicating himself to golf, Ozaki showcased his athletic prowess as a baseball pitcher. He led his high school to a national championship and played professionally for the Nishitetsu Lions for three years before transitioning to golf at the age of 23. He won the Japan PGA Championship the following year.

Ozaki dominated the Japan Golf Tour for nearly three decades. He amassed a record 94 JGTO victories, a figure that stands over 40 wins ahead of his closest rival, Isao Aoki. His accomplishments include six Japan PGA Championships and five Japan Open titles. He led the tour in earnings a record 12 times, including a remarkable five-year stretch from 1994 to 1998. In 1996, at the age of 49, Ozaki reached his peak world ranking of No. 5. He maintained a position within the top 10 of the Official World Golf Ranking for almost 200 weeks.

While Ozaki primarily competed in Japan, he made several appearances in major championships, achieving notable results. His best finishes include a tie for 8th at the 1973 Masters Tournament and a tie for 6th at the 1989 U.S. Open. He played in 49 majors overall. Ozaki also represented the International Team in the 1996 Presidents Cup. He won the New Zealand PGA Championship.

Ozaki's influence extended beyond his own achievements. His brothers, Naomichi ("Joe") and Tateo ("Jet"), also enjoyed successful careers on the JGTO. In his later years, Ozaki dedicated himself to mentoring young golfers, with proteges like Yuka Saso and Mao Saigo achieving success on the U.S. tour.

Masashi "Jumbo" Ozaki's impact on Japanese golf is immeasurable. His go-for-broke style, charisma, and unparalleled success inspired a nation and paved the way for future generations of golfers. He was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011.