FORT WORTH, Texas — Grayson Murray, a two-time PGA Tour winner, passed away on Saturday at the age of 30, the PGA Tour announced. Murray had withdrawn from the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth on Friday.

In a heartfelt statement released through the PGA Tour on Sunday, Murray's parents confirmed that he died by suicide. "We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone," Eric and Terry Murray said. "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."

Their statement continued: "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."

Official Announcement and Immediate Response

The announcement of Murray's death came around 2 p.m. on Saturday, as the third round of the Charles Schwab Challenge was underway. "We were devastated to learn – and are heartbroken to share – that PGA TOUR player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words,” PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan said in a statement.

At the request of Murray's family, the Charles Schwab Challenge continued on Saturday. Grief counselors were made available at the PGA Tour and Korn Ferry Tour events throughout the weekend. “I reached out to Grayson’s parents to offer our deepest condolences, and during that conversation, they asked that we continue with tournament play,” Monahan said. “They were adamant that Grayson would want us to do so. As difficult as it will be, we want to respect their wishes.”

Community and Player Reactions

The Colonial Country Club described Murray as a "talented golfer, but most importantly, a human being that was truly loved by many." Their statement emphasized the tight-knit nature of the golf community: "The golf community is small. When one hurts, we all feel it tremendously. We will all hug our loved ones tonight a little tighter and remember our friend, Grayson Murray."

Many people at the Colonial Country Club on Saturday remembered Murray’s legacy. Commissioner Monahan traveled from Florida to be in Fort Worth to support the players and fans. “There's a lot of people that are going to be carrying a heavy heart out at the PGA Tour,” he said. “There's a family that...is obviously devastated that we need to support.”

Several golfers also spoke about Murray’s impact on the sport. PGA golfer Webb Simpson, who first met Murray when he was a kid, shared his initial disbelief upon hearing the news. "You don't think it's real at first...and you know...you hear the emotion...coming...from our swing coach and then you realize it's real," Simpson said.

Peter Malnati, who was paired with Murray in the first and second rounds this week, was overcome with emotion while discussing Murray's death. “In a time like this you realize as much as we want to beat each other as much as we want to be competitive, we really are one big family, and we lost one today,” he said.

Murray’s Career and Achievements

Murray's career included two PGA Tour titles, the first in 2017 and the second at this year’s Sony Open in Hawaii. He also won three consecutive Callaway Junior World Championships from 2006 to 2008, demonstrating his talent from a young age. Murray was from Raleigh, North Carolina, and was well-respected in the golfing community for his skill and passion for the game.

Personal Struggles and Advocacy

Throughout his career, Murray was open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse. He frequently used his platform to advocate for mental health awareness and support within the sports community. His transparency and courage in discussing his personal battles inspired many, bringing much-needed attention to the importance of mental health care.

PGA Tour and Mental Health Initiatives

In light of this tragedy, the PGA Tour reiterated its commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of its players. Grief counselors and mental health professionals were made available to players, caddies, and staff. The PGA Tour has several programs aimed at providing mental health resources and support, and they have encouraged anyone struggling to reach out for help.

Family's Plea for Privacy and Support

Murray’s family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they grieve their loss. They expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from the golf community and beyond. "We know Grayson touched many lives, and the messages we have received have been a great comfort," they said.

Final Thoughts

As the golf world mourns the loss of Grayson Murray, his legacy as a beloved player and person endures. His contributions to the sport and his advocacy for mental health awareness will not be forgotten. The PGA Tour, along with his family and friends, will continue to honor his memory and work towards a greater understanding and support for mental health in sports.