It seemed like a Saturday like any other at the Colonial Country Club, but the day soon took a decidedly different turn. The audience was numerous to witness the show of the great champions at Charles Schwab Challengebut in a flash the day took a tragic turn. In fact, late in the American morning the news of Grayson Murray’s passing went crazy, which unfortunately turned out to be terribly true.
The class of 1993 was on the field until the day before, when along the seventeenth of his second lap he had to retire telling himself he feels bad. Nothing made us think of the worst possible epilogue, but unfortunately with a statement from the Commissioner of the PGA Tour, Jay Monahan, informed everyone of the terrible death. On the pitch the atmosphere became surreal, with the spectators continuing to search for information in disbelief and the news certainly also reached those who played.
Murray, no. 58 in the world and 31 years old in the next few months, represented a true story of resilience. Was an exceptional golfer since his youth. He won three consecutive Callaway Junior World Championships (2006-2008) and was the best in the world in his age group. He made his first cut on the Korn Ferry Tour at age 16, becoming the second youngest player to ever do so. Grayson attended three different universities, where there was no shortage of problems, not so much with golf, but with his life off the course.
All resolved with great commitment and dedication, and the final redemption had arrived in January, with the victory on the highest American circuit of the Sony Open. He made an incredible approach and putt on the 72nd hole to force a three-way playoff, then holing out on the green of the first extra hole from over twelve meters to defeat Byeong Hun An and Keegan Bradley. Then the tragic day yesterdayfurther information has not been disclosed, the causes of death are still unknown, with the family who requested that the game not stop. Among other things, the PGA Tour has made psychological support available to all players who need it.
PRESS RELEASE JAY MONAHAN, PGA TOUR COMMISSIONER
“We were devastated to learn – and heartbroken to share – that PGA TOUR player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I’m speechless. The PGA TOUR is a family, and when you lose a member of your family you will never be the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for the comfort of his loved ones. I reached out to Grayson’s parents to offer our deepest condolences, and during that conversation, they asked me to continue with the tournaments. They were adamant that Grayson would want us to do this. As difficult as it will be, we want to respect their wishes”.
