The PGA Tour announced the death of golfer Grayson Murray on Saturday morning. He was 30 years old.
“We were devastated to learn – and heartbroken to announce – that PGA TOUR player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words,” said PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, in a press release.
“The PGA TOUR is a family, and when you lose a family member, you are never the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones.
“I contacted Grayson’s parents to offer our deepest condolences, and during that conversation, they requested that we continue with the tournament. They were adamant that Grayson would want us to do so. As difficult as it is whatever it may be, we want to respect their wishes.
“The PGA TOUR has grief counselors available at both tournament sites, as well as virtually for those not in the field. I am on my way to Fort Worth and will share more information when we can.”
No cause of death has been announced.
Murray was part of this week’s field at the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas, but withdrew during Friday’s second round, citing illness.
The Tour considered stopping the tournament but, according to Jim Nantz on the CBS broadcast, Murray’s family insisted that the event continue.
In January, Murray earned his second PGA Tour victory by winning the Sony Open in Hawaii in a playoff, ending a six-year winless drought.
After a decorated amateur career that included three World Junior Championship victories and becoming the second-youngest golfer to qualify on the Korn Ferry Tour at age 16, Murray won his first PGA Tour event as a rookie at the Barbasol Championship in July 2017.
He struggled on and off the course in the years following that victory. He told The Golf Channel that he struggled with depression and anxiety and eventually received treatment for alcohol abuse. Murray had reportedly been sober for several months and appeared to be doing much better. His victory in January was then considered a moment of redemption.
As players finished their rounds Saturday and word began to spread, many people in the golf world shared their thoughts on Murray. Peter Malnati, who played with Murray the first two rounds in Fort Worth this week, was extremely emotional on the CBS broadcast Saturday.
Speechless to hear about Grayson. Guy went through so many ups and downs to get to where he was. I suffered so much for his family and loved ones. My condolences and my most sincere sympathies
-Justin Thomas (@JustinThomas34) May 25, 2024
I had the opportunity to spend a few rounds of golf alongside Grayson over the past few weeks at Hilton Head, Quail Hollow and Valhalla. I will always remember it and use it to remind myself that you never know what challenges people face in their lives and how they may be… pic.twitter.com/3yXnz1t8cK
-Justin ROSE (@JustinRose99) May 25, 2024
Truly devastating news: the death of Grayson Murray. He asked me for some advice for playing at Augusta a few months ago, last week I saw him at the PGA Championship, life is truly precious. My condolences and prayers to her entire family so she can find some peace 💔
– Luke Donald (@LukeDonald) May 25, 2024
Very sad to hear the news today of the passing of Grayson Murray. Life is so fragile…I was just hugging you at the Masters, telling you how proud I am of you. Thank you for knowing you.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. We will miss him.
– Bubba Watson (@bubbawatson) May 25, 2024
Jay Green, Murray’s caddy, told Golf Channel on Saturday afternoon: “Grayson was the absolute best. Not only was he an incredible, caring and generous boss, but he was an even better friend. He would truly do anything for anyone. He has the best family, and my heart goes out to them all.”
