UPDATE: 3:30 p.m., CDT
The PGA TOUR has released a statement on behalf of the parents of golfer Grayson Murray, Eric and Terry Murray:
“We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone. It’s surreal that we not only have to admit it to ourselves, but that we also have to acknowledge it to the world. It’s a nightmare.
We have so many questions that have no answers.
But one.
Was Grayson loved? The answer is yes. By us, his brother Cameron, his sister Erica, all of his extended family, by his friends, by his fellow players and – it seems – by many of you who are reading this. He was loved and he will be missed.
We would like to thank the PGA TOUR and the entire world of golf for the outpouring of support. Life wasn’t always easy for Grayson, and although he took his own life, we know he rests peacefully now.
Please respect our privacy as we work through this incredible tragedy, and please honor Grayson by being kind to one another. If that becomes his legacy, we could ask for nothing else.
Thank you.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or needs emotional support, the 988 Lifeline network is here for you. It’s available 24/7 across the United States. You can reach out for help by texting or calling 988.
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Shock resonated over the golfing world as word came Saturday morning of the unexpected death of PGA Tour player Grayson Murray.
“We were devastated to learn – and are heartbroken to share – that PGA TOUR player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words,” PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan said. “The PGA TOUR is a family, and when you lose a member of your family, you are never the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones,” reported the PGA TOUR.
Murray, 30, was a two-time PGA Tour winner. He was playing in the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial in Fort Worth when he withdrew due to not feeling well. As of yet, no details about Murray’s death have been made public.
In the initial round at Colonial Country Club, Murray displayed strong form, carding a 68. However, in the subsequent round, he encountered difficulties, going two over par and ultimately withdrawing on Friday with two holes left to play, per Golf Digest. Murray attributed his withdrawal to illness.
Murray had been candid about his battles with alcohol and mental health in the past. However, this year, he achieved a remarkable transformation. He emerged victorious at the Sony Open, delivering a stunning performance by hitting a wedge to within 3 feet for a birdie on the final hole, earning entry into a playoff, per ESPN. His crowning moment came when he sunk a phenomenal 40-foot putt to clinch the win.
Grief counselors have been made available for the remainder of the PGA Tour and Korn Ferry Tour events, per the PGA.