PGA golfer Grayson Murray tragically died by suicide, his parents confirmed on Sunday. The news has left the golf community and his loved ones in deep sorrow and shock.
"To be in the locker room, to see the devastation on the faces of every player that's coming in, it's really difficult to see. And really just profound," PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said during a CBS broadcast on Saturday. He mentioned that grief counseling and other support services would be available to players. Monahan also shared that Murray's parents requested the tournament continue because it's what Grayson would have wanted. "They were adamant that Grayson would want us to do so," Monahan said. "As difficult as it will be, we want to respect their wishes."
Grayson, 30, had withdrawn from the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial after the 16th hole of the second round on Friday in Fort Worth, Texas, citing illness according to the PGA Tour.
Murray had been candid about his battles with alcohol abuse and mental health issues. He made headlines in 2017 by winning the Barbasol Championship as a 22-year-old PGA Tour rookie. Reflecting on his journey, he mentioned how he often drank heavily during tournaments because he felt invincible due to his talent. However, by January, he had been sober for 8 months and achieved a significant victory at the Sony Open with a remarkable 40-foot putt. "It took me a long time to get to this point," Murray said in January. "I'm a different man now. I would not be in this position right now today if I didn't put that drink down eight months ago."
In a heartfelt statement released on social media, Grayson's parents, Eric and Terry Murray, expressed their profound grief and gratitude for the support they have received. "We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone," they wrote. "It's surreal that we not only have to admit it to ourselves, but that we also have to acknowledge it to the world." They added, "Life wasn't always easy for Grayson, but we know he rests peacefully now."
Grayson's parents emphasized the love he received throughout his life. "We have so many questions that have no answers. But one. Was Grayson loved? The answer is yes," they wrote. "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 also thanked the PGA Tour and the entire golf community for their outpouring of support and asked for privacy as they navigate this incredible tragedy.
Grayson Murray was engaged and believed his best golf was still ahead of him. His legacy, as his parents hope, will be honored by acts of kindness towards one another. "If that becomes his legacy, we could ask for nothing else," they said.
Murray's passing is a poignant reminder of the silent battles many face, even amid success and talent. His courage in addressing his struggles openly has touched many lives, leaving an indelible mark on the world of golf and beyond.
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