American golfer Grayson Murray, who was announced dead on Saturday at the age of 30, took his own life, according to a statement made by his family.
Murray’s death was announced by the PGA Tour a day after he withdrew during the second round of the Charles Schwab Challenge in Texas. His family wrote on social media:
“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 who are reading this. He was loved and he will be missed.
“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.
“Please respect our privacy as we work through this incredible tragedy, and please honour Grayson by being kind to one another. If that becomes his legacy, we could ask for nothing else. Thank you.”
Murray won the Sony Open in Hawaii in January, having claimed his maiden PGA Tour success at the 2017 Barbasol Championship in Kentucky.
He pulled out of the ongoing Charles Schwab Challenge on Friday after completing 16 holes and reportedly telling playing partners he felt unwell.
World number one Scottie Scheffler said upon hearing the news: “Obviously, the news hasn’t really sunk in quite yet, but I’m thinking about his family and praying hard for all of them.
“I can’t imagine how difficult of a time this is. I got to know Grayson a bit better over the last six months or so.
“There’s not really a way to put into words how sad and tragic it is, but I’m thinking about his family.”
If you need information about mental health supports or services, speak with a GP, visit yourmentalhealth.ie, or call the HSE YourMentalHealth information line (1800 111 888) at any time of day or night
