The golfing community is reeling from the tragic passing of Grayson Murray, a two-time PGA Tour winner, who died by suicide at the age of 30. In the wake of this heartbreaking news, fellow golfer Harry Higgs delivered a poignant tribute, urging everyone to spread kindness and support those who may be struggling.
Grayson Murray, born on October 1, 1993, in Raleigh, North Carolina, was a promising talent in the world of professional golf. He first gained full status on the PGA Tour in 2017 after a successful stint on the Korn Ferry Tour. Murray’s raw talent and determination quickly made him a fan favorite, as he consistently delivered impressive performances on the course.
Murray’s professional career was marked by significant achievements. He won his first PGA Tour event, the Barbasol Championship, in 2017 at the age of 23. His most recent victory came earlier this year at the Sony Open in Hawaii, where he clinched the title with a dramatic 40-foot putt in a playoff. In addition to his two PGA Tour wins, Murray also secured three victories on the Korn Ferry Tour, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor.
Despite his success on the course, Murray faced numerous challenges, including injuries and personal struggles. His resilience and determination to overcome these obstacles made him a beloved figure among fans and fellow players alike.
Tragically, Murray’s life came to an end on May 25, 2024, just one day after he withdrew from the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas. His family confirmed that he died by suicide, leaving the golfing community in a state of profound grief and disbelief.
Harry Higgs’ Heartfelt Tribute
Harry Higgs, a fellow professional player, has also faced his share of ups and downs in his career. Born on December 4, 1991, in Camden, New Jersey, Higgs turned professional in 2014 and has since made a name for himself on the PGA Tour and Korn Ferry Tour. Known for his charismatic personality and impressive skills, Harry Higgs has become a respected figure in the golfing world.
In the wake of Grayson Murray’s tragic passing, Harry Higgs delivered a heartfelt speech during his victory at the Visit Knoxville Open. Higgs, who had just secured his second consecutive win on the Korn Ferry Tour, took the opportunity to honor Murray’s memory and emphasize the importance of kindness and support.
“Yesterday, we lost one of our own,” Higgs began. “Somebody who went through a lot of difficult things, somebody who was open and honest about it. I didn’t sleep worth a darn [last night]. I thought about this moment and how to remember Grayson [Murray] and it just kind of dawned on me. The result is lovely, sure, but it’s not that meaningful.”
Harry Higgs’ words were spoken immediately after he made history on the Korn Ferry Tour. With his victory at the Visit Knoxville Open, Higgs became the only player in tour history to win two consecutive events, both in playoffs.
Harry Higgs continued:
“One thing that I thought of last night laying in bed was I’m going to challenge everybody here – and I’m going to do this myself as well – to say something nice to someone you love and also make it a point to say something nice to somebody you don’t even know. The world is a very difficult place and only getting more difficult.”
Harry Higgs’ words resonated deeply with those in attendance and the broader golfing community. He emphasized the importance of mental health awareness and the need to support one another, especially in times of struggle.
“I’ve been blessed with great parents and a great support system and I haven’t had, other than some frustration at times, any battles mentally, but lord knows how many people do and it’s only ever increasing. Everybody here could be the difference. Brighten up somebody’s day, it could mean the world. Let’s all try to put some good out in the world.”
Grayson Murray‘s passing has left a significant void in the golf community. His parents, Eric and Terry Murray, expressed their heartbreak and gratitude for the support they have received:
“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 honor Grayson by being kind to one another. If that becomes his legacy, we could ask for nothing else.”
Murray’s career and life, though cut short, had a profound impact on those around him. His struggles and achievements have highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and the need for compassion and understanding within the competitive world of professional sports.
The tragic death of Grayson Murray is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the battles that many face in silence. Harry Higgs’ heartfelt tribute serves as a powerful call to action, urging everyone to spread kindness and support those who may be struggling.
As the golfing community mourns the loss of one of its bright stars, the legacy of Grayson Murray will continue to inspire and remind us of the importance of compassion and mental health awareness.