HONOLULU — A poignant remembrance unfolded Tuesday morning at Waialae during the Sony Open, as numerous players, caddies, and officials from the PGA Tour gathered with the family of Grayson Murray to honor the late defending champion who tragically took his own life four months ago.
Murray captured the Sony Open last year, sinking a long 40-foot putt on the 18th hole to clinch his victory in a playoff.
The emotional celebration coincided with the PGA Tour’s announcement of the Grayson Murray Foundation, aimed at increasing awareness and support for mental health and addiction.
In a heartfelt tribute, Murray’s parents, Eric and Terry, shared their thoughts on his impact: “Grayson touched the hearts of many by openly discussing his mental health challenges. His journey as a multi-time champion on the PGA Tour allowed him to reach out and inspire those struggling, and we are committed to continuing his legacy of kindness and dedication to making a positive change in people’s lives.”
During the ceremony, which was led by Corbett Kalama, president of Friends of Hawaii Charities, Eric Murray struggled with tears as he remembered his son. As the sun rose over the ocean, he urged friends and loved ones to keep Grayson’s enthusiasm for life alive through their collective efforts.
Kalama also invited Grayson’s family—his parents, brother, sister, and caddie Jay Green—to partake in a ritual of tossing white orchid petals into the sea. Approximately thirty other players, caddies, and officials, including PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, gathered alongside them, with Monahan standing barefoot on the sand, his arms wrapped in his blazer.
Peter Malnati, who played alongside Murray at the Colonial event in May, alerted authorities after noticing something was amiss when Murray chose to withdraw from the second round. Tragically, Murray took his life the following day on May 25 at his Florida home.
Murray was a natural talent, having started playing golf at just eight years old. He remarkably clinched three consecutive age division titles at the notable Junior World Championship in San Diego. However, his transition to college life proved challenging; he attended Wake Forest, East Carolina, and finally Arizona State.
Throughout his life, Murray was known for his candidness about his own battles. He notably revealed that he had been sober for eight months at the time of his Sony Open win. “It’s not easy,” he expressed after triumphing in Hawaii. “There were times I wanted to give up—on myself, on golf, on life.”
Webb Simpson, who had long known Murray from their shared experiences with the same coach in North Carolina, reflected on the deep loss. “I can only imagine how painful it must be to lose a child,” he remarked. “I hope they can recognize the immense love and respect he received. His loss is profoundly felt.”
Jeff Maness, serving as president of Murray’s foundation, indicated that it was formed out of Murray’s desire to assist those in need. “As Grayson bravely navigated his own struggles with depression and addiction, he understood the obstacles inherent in seeking help, including financial and accessibility challenges,” Maness noted. “Grayson was determined to leverage his status on the PGA Tour to aid others. We honor him by continuing his mission.”
