Bowling legend Jakob Butturff has died at the age of 32. His death was confirmed in a press release from the Pro Bowling Association.
"Jakob Butturff died unexpectedly on Friday, July 31, at the age of 32," they wrote. "Butturff was an eight-time PBA Tour champion, winning one major in the 2019 USBC Masters."
The PBA went on to detail some of his bowling history. "Butturff's breakout came during the 2016 season. He won his first two PBA Tour titles and dominated the PBA Regional Tour, winning a record nine titles and also earning West Region and Northwest Region Player of the Year honors."
Butturff was also a member of the US Olympic Bowling Team: "Butturff was a seven-time member of Team USA [for bowling]. He won the 2017 QubicaAMF World Cup and helped Team USA win multiple gold and silver medals."
A cause of death has not been released at this time.
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Tributes Poured in for the Bowling Legend
Tributes have poured in for the bowling legend from fans and professionals alike.
The PBA shared a statement from their commissioner, Tom Clark. "Jakob was one of the most unique players in PBA history," he said.
"Fans marveled at his delivery, as he rode a wave of strikes into becoming a top player in the sport, capable of winning at any time, in any event. Jakob was kind, he was respectful, he was a champion."
"He will never be forgotten. Our hearts are with all Butters touched on his one-of-a-kind journey."
Other PBA stars also shared condolences, per the press release: EJ Tackett said, "It ain't supposed to be like this... It's nothing short of soul crushing."
"Butters was one of the guys that would give the shirt off his back for anyone in need and he showed that time and time again. The bowling world lost today and it will never be the same. We all love you buddy, until we meet again, my friend."
Fans also shared their condolences on social media, with a fan writing, "Another legend gone too son, when he came to New Mexico for the New Mexico open I met him and got the opportunity to have a little chat with him and got his autograph."
May he rest in peace.
