Content warning: This story contains references to suicide. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, the National Suicide Prevention Line is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8255.
The PGA Tour announced that golfer Grayson Murray died Saturday morning. He was 30 years old.
“We were devastated to learn – and 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 in a statement.
“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.
“I contacted Grayson’s parents to express our deepest condolences, and during that conversation they asked if we would continue with tournament play. They were confident that Grayson would want us to do so. As difficult as it may be will 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 was initially released. His parents, Eric and Terry Murray, confirmed he died by suicide in a statement released by the PGA Tour on Sunday morning.
We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is no longer here. It’s surreal that not only do we have to admit it to ourselves, but we have to admit it to the world. It’s a nightmare.
We have so many questions that have no answers.
Was Grayson loved? The answer is yes. By us, his brother Cameron, his sister Erica, his entire extended family, by his friends, by his co-stars and – it seems – by many of you reading this. He was loved and he will be missed.
We would like to thank the PGA TOUR and the entire golf world for the outpouring of support. Life wasn’t always easy for Grayson, and although he committed suicide, we know he now rests peacefully.
Please respect our privacy as we deal with this incredible tragedy, and honor Grayson by being kind to each other. If that becomes his legacy, we couldn’t ask for anything else.
Murray was part of the field this week at the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas, but withdrew during Friday’s second round due to illness.
The Tour considered halting play at the tournament, but according to Jim Nantz on the CBS broadcast, Murray’s family insisted the event go ahead.
In January, Murray earned his second PGA Tour victory by winning the Sony Open in Hawaii in a play-off, breaking a six-year winless drought.
After a decorated amateur career that included three wins at the Junior World Championship and becoming the second-youngest golfer to make the Korn Ferry Tour at age 16, Murray won his first PGA Tour tournament as a rookie at the Barbasol Championship in July 2017 .
He struggled on and off the course in the years after that victory. He told The Golf Channel that he battled depression and anxiety and eventually received treatment for alcohol abuse. Murray had reportedly been sober for several months and seemed to be doing much better. His victory in January was seen at the time as a moment of redemption.
As players finished their rounds on Saturday and word began to spread, many in the golf world shared their thoughts on Murray. Peter Malnati, who played the first two rounds with Murray in Fort Worth this week, was extremely emotional during the CBS broadcast on Saturday.
Speechless to hear about Grayson. Guy had been through so many ups and downs to get where he was. I caused so much pain for his family and the people closest to him. My condolences and deepest condolences
— Justin Thomas (@JustinThomas34) May 25, 2024
I had the opportunity to spend a few rounds of golf with Grayson in Hilton Head, Quail Hollow and Valhalla in recent weeks. I will always remember that and use it to remind myself that you never know what challenges people face in their lives and how they can be… pic.twitter.com/3yXnz1t8cK
— Justin ROSE (@JustinRose99) May 25, 2024
Truly devastating news that Grayson Murray has passed away. He asked me a few months ago for some advice about playing Augusta. Last week I saw him at the PGA Championship, life really is precious. My condolences and prayers for his entire family that they may find some peace 💔
— Luke Donald (@LukeDonald) May 25, 2024
Very sad to hear the news today of Grayson Murray’s passing. Life is so fragile… I just hugged you at the Masters and told you how proud I am of you. Thankful to have known you.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time. He will be missed.
— 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, thoughtful and generous boss, he was an even better friend. He would really do anything for anyone. He has the dear family, and my heart goes out to them. We will all miss him very much.”
