Masashi "Jumbo" Ozaki said Wednesday he will not attend the 2011 World Golf Hall of Fame induction ceremony in St. Augustine, Fla. on May 9 in order to concentrate on a tournament in Japan.
His youngest brother Naomichi, who plays on the U.S. senior tour, is scheduled to attend in place of the 64-year-old.
"Hall of Fame officials are concerned about the aftermath of the earthquake and told me I wouldn't have to attend the ceremony if it proved to be difficult," Ozaki told reporters on the eve of The Crowns in Aichi Prefecture.
Ozaki will play at the Japan PGA Championship, the first major of the year in Hyogo Prefecture, during the Hall of Fame induction week.
The all-time leader in JGTO Tour wins with 94, Ozaki will become the fourth World Golf Hall of Famer from Japan, following Hisako "Chako" Higuchi, Isao Aoki and Ayako Okamoto.