Tragic star Murray took own life at 30
THE parents of Grayson Murray have paid tribute to their son after confirming the two-time PGA Tour winner took his own life at the age of 30.
The golfing world was left in shock on Saturday when it was announced the American had died less than 24 hours after withdrawing from the Charles Schwab Challenge in Texas.
A statement from Murray’s parents, Eric and Terry Murray, read: ‘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.
‘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.’
Murray withdrew after 16 holes of his second round in Texas, citing illness. He had previously spoken of his battles with depression, anxiety and alcoholism.
One of his playing partners in Texas, Peter Malnati, cried during an interview with CBS, saying: ‘I didn’t know Grayson all that well, but I spent the last two days with him. We get so worked up out here about a bad break or a good break. We’re so competitive and you want to beat each other — then something like this happens and you realise we’re all just humans.
‘ It’s just a really hard day because you look at Grayson and you see someone who has visibly, outwardly struggled in the past and he’s been open about it.
‘And you see him get his life back to a place where he’s feeling good about things. Just to know he’s not going to be doing that any more, it’s a huge loss for all of us.’
Murray had been a junior prodigy and was ranked 58th in the world. That he had claimed his second Tour victory at the Sony Open in January, having wrestled mental health difficulties, made him a figure of admiration on the circuit.
Justin rose said: ‘I had the opportunity to spend a few rounds with Grayson at Hilton Head, Quail Hollow and Valhalla. I will always remember that and use it to remind myself that you never know what challenges people have going on in their lives and how they may be internalising things.’
European ryder Cup captain Luke Donald posted on X: ‘Truly devastating news. He asked me for advice on how to play Augusta a few months ago, last week I saw him at the PGA Championship. Life is precious. My condolences and prayers to his family that they may find some peace.’
The PGA Tour were criticised by Murray in 2021 over a lack of support during his tough times.
Commissioner Jay Monahan, who complied with the wishes of Murray’s family by not cancelling the Charles Schwab Challenge, said: ‘Over the last several years I spent a lot of time with him. I wanted to understand what we could do.
‘I’m devastated by Grayson’s loss. I learned an awful lot from him, he was very open and transparent with me. These are some of the best athletes in the world. They think, in many respects, they’re invincible.
‘I think back about Grayson’s openness — he taught us all a lesson on that front and that’s something I’ll never forget.’ lFor confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org