Grayson Murray, Two-Time PGA Tour Winner, Dies at 30
The golf world is mourning the loss of PGA Tour player Grayson Murray, who died by suicide at age 30. Commissioner Jay Monahan announced Murray’s passing on Saturday, a day after Murray withdrew from the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas.
Murray’s parents, Eric and Terry Murray, confirmed their son had taken his own life in a heartfelt statement on Sunday. They requested privacy and urged people to honor Grayson by being kind to one another. “If that becomes his legacy, we could ask for nothing else,” they said.
Murray was a rising star in the golfing community. He secured his second PGA Tour title at the Sony Open in Hawaii this January. Reflecting on his victory, he spoke candidly about his struggles with alcoholism and mental health. “My story is not finished. I think it’s just the beginning. I hope I can inspire a lot of people going forward that have their own issues,” Murray said after his win.
Despite his recent success, Murray faced many personal battles. He had openly discussed his challenges with depression and anxiety and his journey to sobriety. In a 2021 social media post, Murray shared his frustrations and feelings of being unsupported by the PGA Tour during his darkest moments. He found solace in his victory earlier this year, calling it a new chapter in his life.
Murray’s parents expressed their heartbreak and gratitude for the support from the golf community. “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,” they said.
Commissioner Monahan conveyed his condolences and acknowledged the difficulty of continuing the tournament. He shared that the decision to proceed was made to respect the wishes of Murray’s family. “I reached out to Grayson’s parents to offer our deepest condolences. They were adamant that Grayson would want us to continue with tournament play,” Monahan said.
In honor of Murray, many players wore black-and-red pins, the colors of his favorite NHL team, the Carolina Hurricanes, during the tournament. Grief counselors were made available to support players and staff affected by the tragic news.
Grayson Murray’s legacy in golf is marked by his talent, resilience, and openness about mental health. His journey, while filled with triumphs and struggles, has left an indelible mark on the golfing community.