Grayson Murray, a two-time PGA Tour winner, tragically passed away on Saturday morning at the age of 30. This devastating news comes just one day after his withdrawal from the Charles Schwab Cup Challenge at Colonial.
The PGA Tour and his management team were filled with shock and grief as news of his death spread. However, no immediate details were available regarding the circumstances surrounding his passing.
PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan expressed his deep sadness and shock over the tragic loss of Grayson. He emphasized the tight-knit bond within the PGA Tour community, referring to it as a family. Monahan acknowledged the profound impact of losing a member of this close-knit family, acknowledging that it forever changes everyone involved. He extended his heartfelt condolences to Grayson’s loved ones and offered prayers for their comfort during this difficult time.
GSE Worldwide, his management company, has confirmed the devastating news of his death and expressed their profound sorrow.
GSE expressed their condolences and shared their sympathy for the family, friends, and loved ones of the individual during this challenging period. They stated that they would refrain from making any further comments until more information becomes available.
After offering his condolences, Monahan spoke with Murray’s parents who expressed their desire for the tournament in Fort Worth, Texas to proceed as planned.
Grief counselors will be present at the PGA Tour and Korn Ferry Tour event in Knoxville, Tennessee, according to Monahan. After heading to Texas, he later made an appearance on CBS as the third round was coming to a close.
“It’s truly heart-wrenching to witness the profound devastation etched on the faces of every player as they enter,” Monahan expressed with deep empathy. “Grayson was not just an exceptional player, but he exemplified remarkable courage. That’s something I’ve always admired about him.”
In a remarkable comeback, Murray, who previously struggled with alcohol and mental health problems, experienced a significant transformation this year. His outstanding performance at the Sony Open exemplified this change as he expertly executed a wedge shot, landing it just 3 feet away from the hole. This crucial birdie helped him secure a spot in the playoff, ultimately claiming victory with an astonishing 40-foot putt.
In 2017, he emerged victorious at the Barbasol Championship.
“It came as a tremendous shock, and my heart sank,” expressed Webb Simpson, recounting his reaction upon receiving the news of Murray’s passing just moments before commencing his game at Colonial. He went on to reveal that Murray held the distinction of being the inaugural champion of his junior tournament and that they had both been under the tutelage of the same swing coach during their younger years.
Simpson expressed her strong dislike for the situation, stating, “I just hate it so much.” She also expressed her sadness at the thought of missing him, saying, “I’m going to miss him.” However, she also expressed gratitude that he had found solace in his faith before the events of this morning occurred.
Murray, a native of North Carolina, possessed exceptional talent as a junior athlete. He achieved notable success by securing three consecutive victories at the highly esteemed Junior World Championship in San Diego. Additionally, Murray’s outstanding achievements earned him the prestigious Arnold Palmer Scholarship at Wake Forest University.
After attending three colleges, ultimately landing at Arizona State, he achieved a remarkable feat as a PGA Tour rookie at the age of 22 by winning the Barbasol Championship.
In January, Murray revealed that he had maintained sobriety for eight months, was happily engaged, had embraced Christianity, and had a strong belief that his golf game would continue to improve. As a testament to his progress, he was selected to serve on the prestigious 16-member Player Advisory Council.
“I believe my story is far from over. In fact, I think it’s just the beginning,” Murray expressed during his time in Hawaii. “Moving forward, my hope is to serve as an inspiration for countless individuals who are facing their own challenges.”
“I’ve come a long way,” Murray shared in January. “It’s been over seven years since I made that decision. I’m a changed person now. If I hadn’t quit drinking eight months ago, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
During the Colonial tournament, Peter Malnati had the opportunity to play alongside Murray. When he was invited to appear on the CBS telecast on Saturday afternoon, he was overcome with emotions as he struggled to talk about his experience with Murray.